Winter Sinus Care: Tips for Avoiding Dryness and Congestion

The air is colder, and people are reaching for extra layers to shield themselves from the breeze—winter is officially here. As we embrace the season, it’s time to prepare for the chilly air that can catch the unprepared off guard.

Although Arizona enjoys milder winters compared to many other states, the winter breeze can still affect your health, particularly your sinuses.

 

The Winter Season, Dry Sinuses, and Nasal Congestion

Air during the winter season is colder and often drier. This dry air can cause dryness in the sinuses – and when the sinuses are dry, the more susceptible they are to irritation and inflammation.

Irritated and inflamed sinuses trap mucus. This leads to mucus buildup and nasal congestion, which makes it difficult to breathe through the nose. When there is mucus buildup, the sinuses are more at risk of developing infections.

Winter sniffles aren’t a new phenomenon, but it doesn’t mean we have to simply accept it. With a few tips and tricks up your sleeve, you can prevent sinus dryness and congestion so you can breathe freely during the festive holiday season.

Avoid Dry Sinuses and Nasal Congestion With These Winter Tips

1.   Keep yourself hydrated

The number one thing on your to-do list to combat dry sinuses due to the winter season is to keep yourself hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Not only will this be healthy for your body but it will do your sinuses good as well.

Proper hydration also means thinner mucus. When mucus is thin, it coats the sinus passages better to keep them properly moisturized. It also promotes proper mucus drainage, providing relief from nasal congestion.

2.   Use an indoor humidifier

Cold winter air is dry and is often drying to the sinuses as well. Combat the dryness in the air by running an indoor humidifier. This machine brings much-needed moisture back into the air, reducing the risk of dry and irritated sinuses.

3.   Try nasal irrigation

Dry and irritated sinuses often lead to nasal congestion. Irrigate your nasal passages with saline nasal sprays. These help break down mucus buildup and clear the sinuses. They can also be highly moisturizing to dry and irritated sinuses.

4.   Moisturize and clear with steam inhalation

Steam inhalation is a tried and tested method you can do at home without fancy equipment or medication. This technique clears out sinus passages and promotes better breathing all the while moisturizing dry sinuses.

To do this, pour hot water into a large bowl. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus or camphor oil for even more comfort and relief. Then, place your face directly above the bowl and cover your head with a towel to trap the steam in. Slowly and deeply breathe through your nose, inhaling the steam.

5.   Use high-quality HEPA filters

High-quality HEPA filters can filter at least 99.97% of dust, dirt, pollen, allergens, and other airborne contaminants that can be circulating through the air in your home. Using them in your home’s HVAC system will make sure you and your family enjoy good quality indoor air that will not irritate the sinuses.

6.   Keep your home and surroundings clean

The winter season can push people to spend more time at home. Because of this, you will want to keep your home clean. Regularly vacuum and dust your home to get rid of dust, dirt, and allergens that can trigger sinus issues. Change your bedding regularly too so you sleep in a comfortable and clean environment every night.

7.   Strengthen your immunity

Your body’s number one defense against winter diseases is your immune system. Strengthen your defenses by maintaining healthy habits:

  • Maintain a healthy diet of nutrient and vitamin-rich foods
  • Add vitamins and supplements to your diet
  • Exercise regularly
  • Get enough rest and sleep
  • Maintain healthy hygiene habits

Avoid Winter Sinus Dryness and Congestion With Sinus & Allergy Wellness Center

Sinus issues, dryness, and congestion can quickly put a damper on the quality of your life. No one wants the winter sniffles during the festive winter season.

At Sinus & Allergy Wellness Center, we are committed to helping our patients breathe better and get rid of dry sinuses. Schedule a consultation with our team of experts today and learn more about how you can combat the dryness in your sinuses!