{"id":3028,"date":"2023-12-08T15:20:11","date_gmt":"2023-12-08T20:20:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blueridge-ent.com\/?p=3028"},"modified":"2023-12-08T15:20:12","modified_gmt":"2023-12-08T20:20:12","slug":"caring-for-your-ent-health-during-holiday-travel","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blueridge-ent.com\/caring-for-your-ent-health-during-holiday-travel\/","title":{"rendered":"Caring for Your ENT Health During Holiday Travel"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

As the holidays jump into full swing, airports, trains, buses and highways fill up with hundreds to thousands of people traveling to meet their loved ones. Any time you are near large groups of people, you are more susceptible to colds, flu, sinusitis<\/a> and more ear, nose and throat (ENT) concerns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are over one billion colds<\/a> in the United States each year. Let\u2019s look at a few tips for caring for your ear, nose and throat health to help ensure one of these colds doesn\u2019t interrupt your holiday season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Get Plenty of Rest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Lack of sleep is an unfortunately common companion to travel. When you sleep, your immune system releases cytokines, small proteins that control the growth and activity<\/a> of other immune system cells. When you are sleep-deprived, your body does not produce enough cytokines, lowering your immune system\u2019s defense. Without a strong immune system, you will be more susceptible <\/a>t<\/a>o germs<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do your best to sleep during travel and get as much rest as possible between holiday celebrations to prevent illness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stay Hydrated<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Hydration is essential to maintaining your health. It can be hard to stay hydrated during travel, but carrying a reusable water bottle and requesting decaffeinated tea, coconut water and other beverages you enjoy can help prevent dehydration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Make Sure To Eat Enough Vitamins and Minerals<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Eating enough nutrients is vital to the proper functioning of all cells<\/a>, including immune cells. When we travel, eating enough fruits, vegetables and whole grains can be difficult. Consider picking up some healthy snacks at Earth Fare to ensure you have the nutrients necessary to stay healthy during travel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pay Attention to Your Symptoms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

ENT symptoms can creep up on you. It is essential to pay attention to your symptoms to prevent those you travel with from becoming sick. If you experience sneezing, congestion, sore throat<\/a>, coughing, fever or other ENT symptoms, you may be coming down with a cold, flu or other viral illness. If you get sick during travel, wear a mask to prevent the spread of germs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even if you become sick, continue to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated and eat healthy foods to help you feel better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To learn more about protecting your ear, nose and throat health this holiday season, contact Blue Ridge ENT<\/span> today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n