Changes in weather, especially drops in temperature or humidity, can significantly impact nasal health and increase your risk of catching colds or the flu. As professionals juggle busy schedules, few realise that simply breathing through an irritated or dry nose can be the gateway to respiratory illness.
How Weather Impacts Your Nose
The nose is the body’s first line of defense against airborne pathogens. It warms, humidifies, and filters the air we breathe. But during colder or drier months, this defense weakens:
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Low Humidity: Dry air dries out the nasal mucosa, reducing its ability to trap viruses and bacteria.
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Cold Temperatures: Blood vessels in the nose constrict in cold weather, which can reduce mucus flow and local immune response.
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Sudden Weather Changes: Fluctuating temperatures can trigger inflammation or allergic reactions, increasing susceptibility to infection.
Research shows that the influenza virus survives and transmits more easily in cold, dry environments (Lowen et al., PLoS Pathogens, 2007). This supports the seasonal spike in respiratory illnesses.
Tips to Protect Nasal Health Year-Round
✅ Hydrate the Nose: Use saline nasal sprays or humidifiers to maintain moisture in nasal passages.
✅ Breathe Through Your Nose: Nasal breathing supports filtering and humidifying air better than mouth breathing. Using of mouth tape also helps.
✅ Avoid Sudden Temperature Shifts: Wear scarves or masks outdoors in winter to warm incoming air.
✅ Keep Indoor Air Clean: Use air purifiers and clean filters regularly to reduce dust, mold, and other irritants.
✅ Strengthen Your Immunity: A balanced diet, quality sleep, and regular exercise bolster mucosal defenses.
Good nasal health is more than a comfort issue—it’s a frontline defense against illness. As climate fluctuations become more extreme, taking daily precautions for your nose is a smart, science-backed step toward overall wellness.