The cold air seeping in from the winter scene can be absolutely brutal to your body in a number of ways. Dry winter air will syphon the moisture from you, leaving your skin dry and cracked and sinuses even more so. To help you combat the winter air and prevent your nasal passages from drying out, we at ENT Specialists would like to elaborate on remedies for a dry nose.
Warm air holds in moisture, which is why the body can maintain the needed moisture. The colder air during the winter months lowers the humidity levels, which causes you to only crank the heat up inside to stay comfortable. The warmth increases, but the moisture in the air does not. This will cause your nasal passages to be come dry and irritable.
Because the cold, dry air draws the moisture out of your mouth and nose, your throat and nose get dried out. This results in cracked nostrils that will often scab, bleed, and cause discomfort. Dry nostrils can also make you more susceptible to colds, sinus infections, and the flu since our nose requires gooey mucus to trap viruses and other icky invaders before they can get you sick. When bacteria and viruses can tend to linger longer in the dry air after someone coughs or sneezes, this is especially a problem in winter. Keep in mind that your heating system kicks up clouds of dust, pollen, and other allergens that can inflame your sinuses as you kick on the thermostat. The cold, dry air in conjunction with the allergens can easily irritate your nasal passages.
Humidifiers will help add moisture in the otherwise cold, dry air. To help prevent reduced moisture that is essential for your nose’s moisture levels. Comfortable home humidity level of between 30% and 50% for your goal. Do not set the humidifier higher than that or other problems can develop that do benefit your dried-out nose or throat.
Seal Air Leaks – Prevent losing the humid air you are creating and preventing cold air from coming in by ensuring your home is properly sealed. Use caulk, weather stripping and other means to keep any cracks and gaps in the doors, windows, attics, foundations, and crawl spaces.
Hydrate Often – Keeping hydrated is essential and simply drinking water, juices, and teas can help your body stay hydrated and better combat the dry nose effects.
Shorten Showers – Hot showers that exceed 15 minutes will easily dry out your skin and add to the dry nasal passages. Keep the showers under 15 minutes and avoid them being excessive hot.
Moisturize – Especially following your shower or bat, rub a thick oil-based moisturizer onto your skin frequently each day. Be sure to use lip balm or petroleum jelly to protect against chapped lip and just below your nose. Be sure to use a nasal saline spray to help moisturize your nasal passages.
If you have problems with dry nose, call ENT Specialists and let us help you find relief and comfort.
