Dealing with Dry Sinuses in Arizona’s Winter Climate
Harsh winters are a major concern for your sinus health. The colder and drier air of the winter season can cause severe dryness in the sinus passages. This dryness can easily irritate the sinuses, leading to inflammation and swelling. When the sinuses are inflamed, mucus gets trapped, making it the perfect environment for germs, viruses, and bacteria to thrive and cause an infection.
You might have let out a sigh of relief from living in Arizona, thinking that the state’s warmer weather all year round provides an escape from this winter sinus nightmare. But even though Arizona boasts of a milder winter season than other states, the air can still get cold and chilly during the nights and mornings.
Arizona residents aren’t at all immune to sinus issues during the winter season – which is why you should keep in mind a few tips to help deal with dry sinuses during harsh winter seasons.
Manage Your Dry Sinuses in Arizona’s Winter Season
- Drink plenty of fluids
Keeping yourself hydrated will be your number one defense against dry sinuses. Drink plenty of water, especially if the day feels colder and drier than usual. This will help thin mucus, promote proper mucus drainage, and eliminate sinus blockages. Additionally, thin mucus helps spread it better in your sinus passages, keeping them hydrated throughout the dry winter season.
You also don’t want to be doing stuff that can further aggravate the dryness so avoid overconsumption of alcohol and caffeine beverages as both can be dehydrating.
- Use an indoor humidifier
Winter air is often dry. The lack of moisture in the air can be drying and irritating to the sinuses. Counter this by using an indoor humidifier to add moisture back into the air.
- Try saline nasal sprays
Saline nasal sprays prove to be effective in irrigating the nasal passages. It breaks down mucus buildup and eliminates blockages, helping you breathe better. They’re also moisturizing and can provide relief from dry sinuses.
- Steam inhalation can be moisturizing too
Steam inhalation is a tried and tested method to combat dry sinuses. It can also effectively promote proper mucus flow and therefore get rid of congestion.
To do this, pour hot water into a large bowl. Putting in a few drops of eucalyptus or camphor oil is optional but it can provide even more comfort and relief. Then, place your head directly above the bowl, and don’t forget to cover your head with a towel to trap the steam in. Then, breathe slowly through your nose.
- Maintain good ventilation
Stale air is often drier and it is a common issue in homes safely sealed from the outdoor’s cold winter air. Dry, stale air can often pose a lot of issues for your sinus health and can lead to sinus irritation and swelling. If the weather allows, open doors and windows every now and then to let fresh air in and improve indoor air quality.
- Remember to take care of your HVAC system
It should be your top priority to maintain and take care of your home’s HVAC system regardless of the season. Clean it regularly, change filters that need changing, and have professionals do routine checkups and maintenance. When your HVAC system is in top shape, you can rest assured that it works to improve indoor air quality and keep your family’s sinuses healthy.
Deal with Your Dry Sinuses With Arizona Breathe Free
Arizona has a unique winter climate. It’s warmer this time around compared to other states but it can still get pretty chilly during the early hours of the morning and the late hours of the night. Though warmer during winter seasons, Arizona winter air is still dry and irritating to the sinuses.
At Arizona Breathe Free, we are committed to helping Arizona residents manage sinus health concerns so they can be comfortable and breathe freely regardless of the season. Get in touch with our top experts today and let’s see how we can help!