Winters and ENT Issues

‘Winter is coming’ is a popular line among two groups - the TV series fraternity and the people who have allergies. The sudden drop in temperature, short days, and longer nights work as the perfect brooding bed for germs to cause infections, allergies, and sickness.

Seasonal changes might not go well with many people. Some might get a cold, runny nose, and cough. If not the allergies, many people experience sudden discomfort in their ears, throat, and nose. And the reason being the cold season. If you are an adult or if your child is falling sick during the cold season, then you should take preventive steps in advance.

Stay with us until the end of the blog to learn more about why ENT issues such as running nose in infants, nasal congestion, nasal irrigation, sinusitis, earwax blockage, vocal infections are more prevalent particularly in the winter season.

What is the connection between ENT issues and cold weather?

The answer would be a straight ‘no connection’ That’s right! There is no direct connection between cold weather and ENT issues. However, it is one of the (many) contributing factors that cause sore throat, ear infections, and sinus issues.

How does winter contribute to throat issues?

Throat infections are triggered by various viruses. During the winter conditions, the impact of these infections would be worse than the normal weather. Dry air and increased spread of germs cause dry throat while inflicting increased irritation and vocal infections. This can get worse if the person breathes through the mouth rather than the nose.

The symptoms of throat infections generally include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, reddened and enlarged tonsils and lymph nodes, red or white patches on the tonsils or back of the throat associated with fever, body chills and aches.

How does cold weather affect the nose?

Runny nose is one of the common issues faced by many children and adults during the cold weather. Cold or dry air, when it passes through the nose, warms it up and adds moisture to match it with the body temperature. This continuous phenomenon may produce water droplets, irritating the nasal lining and nasal glands. The nasal glands, in turn, produce excess mucus leading to a runny nose.

What is the impact of winter on the ears?

Infections that are moved to the middle ear can cause ear issues that cause drainage, pain, and trouble hearing. Infections of nose and throat, cold, and allergies like sinus can impact hearing at various levels. Adding to the difficulty, the lower temperature, by decreasing blood circulation to the inner ear, intensifies infections. Nausea, disturbed balance, and even vomiting can happen due to the infections. Children with ear infections experience abrupt or acute symptoms such as fluid discharge, pain and pressure in the ear, fever, loss of balance, nausea, and vomiting.

Ear infections in children should be attended with utmost care. If you are observing ear, nose or throat infections that are longer than 2-3 days, consult your nearest ENT doctor for better treatment.

What is the connection between sinusitis and winters?

There is a strong connection between sinusitis and cold weather. Allergens in the hollow recesses of the nose and eyes in the skull can become trapped, causing inflammation, pain, and discomfort. People diagnosed with chronic sinusitis are more likely to deal with persistent symptoms during winter.

How to prevent ENT issues during the winter?

● Strengthen your immune system with an immunity-boosting diet such as dry fruits, amla, dates, leafy greens, vegetables, millets, and root vegetables.

● Winters make us all lazy. However, ensure your children or your family members are getting enough physical activity every day.

● Keep your surroundings clean and tidy and most importantly dress your kids as per the weather outside.

If you have an allergy or an ENT condition, winter can become a challenging season to deal with. Follow healthy practices, take prescribed medications (if you have any) and stay positive. If you still have any queries regarding ENT care, here are a few frequently asked questions.

1. What are the personal habits to teach children to get through the winter season?

Maintain personal hygiene by covering your nose before sneezing, refraining from touching your nose, covering ears in the mornings and evenings, and washing hands at regular intervals.

2. Which is the best hospital for best ENT care?

Vikram ENT Hospital in Coimbatore is a complete ENT care provider for children and adults. Book an appointment today to get through the winter season without having to face any difficulty related to ENT.