People often associate cold weather season with a time of year when sickness is common. Cold weather can impact your health, especially your ear, nose and throat (ENT) health, and here’s how:
Nasal Dryness
In cold weather, both outdoor air and indoor heating tend to have low humidity, which can dry out your nasal passages. This dryness may lead to discomfort, irritation and even nosebleeds. Cold-air rhinitis, a condition triggered by exposure to cold temperatures, can cause nasal congestion, burning sensations and a runny nose.
Tips to relieve nasal dryness:
- Use a humidifier indoors to add moisture to the air.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
- Try saline nasal sprays to keep your nasal passages moisturized.
Sinus Infections
The combination of cold, dry air and spending more time indoors can heighten the risk of sinus infections. Dry nasal passages can trap bacteria, making it easier for infections to take hold. With close contact indoors, germs spread more easily, further increasing the likelihood of sinus issues.
Ways to support sinus health:
- Rinse your sinuses with a saline solution to clear out allergens and mucus.
- Wash your hands frequently to minimize germ transmission.
- Avoid exposure to smoke and other irritants, which can aggravate sinus symptoms.
Ear Pain and Pressure
Colder weather can also affect your ears, especially if you’re prone to congestion or pressure changes. Chilly air may impact the function of the Eustachian tubes, which can result in discomfort, pain or a feeling of pressure in the ears.
Tips to protect your ears in cold weather:
- Wear earmuffs or a warm hat to shield your ears from the cold.
- Minimize sudden changes in temperature, as this can make ear discomfort worse.
- If you feel ear pressure building, try yawning, chewing gum or blowing your nose gently to help equalize it.
Throat Irritation and Soreness
Cold air can dry out your throat, causing irritation, especially if you tend to breathe through your mouth. Spending more time indoors also increases the chance of catching viruses, which can lead to a sore throat.
Ways to soothe a sore throat:
- Use throat lozenges to keep your throat tissues comfortable.
- Drink water regularly to keep your throat hydrated.
- Try to avoid close contact with those who are sick, and remember to wash your hands frequently.
By taking a few extra steps to protect your ears, nose and throat this winter, you can reduce discomfort and minimize your risk of seasonal illnesses. If you’re experiencing any persistent ENT issues, a doctor can help assess your symptoms and recommend effective treatments to keep you feeling your best.
For more information or to book a consultation, contact Blue Ridge ENT to ensure your ENT health is in peak condition throughout the colder months.