LAX Leader

• Seasonal depression is a common occurrence during the winter months.
• Around 10 million Americans experience seasonal depression every year.
• Persistent sinus problems may increase the probability of experiencing depression, but treatment can resolve both issues.

Millions of Americans struggle with seasonal depression during the winter, and sinus issues could be a contributing factor. Dr. Matt Hershcovitch of SoCal Breathe Free said depression and chronic sinusitis are connected.

"There's a very good study out of the Cleveland clinic that shows a direct link between not only depression but anxiety as well for people with chronic sinusitis," Dr. Hershcovitch told LAX Leader. "Those who have developed chronic sinusitis are much more likely to develop depression and anxiety. This is because it's like a weight on top of you 24/7. You have headaches, you have congestion, you can't breathe, and you can't sleep well at night."

A report from Boston University revealed that around ten million Americans encounter seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), annually. This condition may manifest with symptoms such as sadness, lethargy, and changes in weight. Typically, SAD occurs during the winter, marked by shorter days and reduced sunlight, and it tends to impact women more frequently than men. Treatment options for SAD include light therapy and conventional approaches like antidepressant medications.

Additional symptoms that could relate to SAD include oversleeping, weight gain, tiredness, low energy, and appetite changes, specifically cravings for high-carb foods, according to the Mayo Clinic. Doctors there noted that, although experiencing occasional low moods is a common part of life, if you find yourself consistently feeling down for extended periods and struggle to muster enthusiasm for activities you typically enjoy, it's advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. This becomes particularly crucial if you notice changes in your sleep patterns and appetite, rely on alcohol for solace or relaxation, or experience feelings of hopelessness.

According to a study conducted by Houston Advanced Nose & Sinus, up to 25% of individuals dealing with chronic sinusitis also encounter symptoms of depression, in addition to more typical signs of a sinus infection like headaches, facial pain, coughing, and nasal discharge. Addressing sinus infections through medication or procedures like balloon sinuplasty can be an effective treatment for depression stemming from chronic sinusitis.

Per SoCal Breathe Free's website, Dr. Matt Hershcovitch received his undergraduate degree at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in nuclear engineering. Following this, he attended the State University of New York for his medical education. He then completed his residency training in head and neck surgery at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and concluded his training with a fellowship in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at Stanford University.