Cold Air Triggers Nasal Congestion, Infections: ENT Expert Explains Why

• Dr. Dipak L. Desai, an ENT expert, explains that cold winter air causes physiological changes leading to blocked noses, facial pressure, and nasal discharge.
• Cold air constricts blood vessels in the nose, reducing moisture and prompting excess mucus production to warm and humidify incoming air.
• This excess mucus, if not cleared by cilia, can trap bacteria and increase the risk of infections, especially when combined with weakened antiviral defenses due to lower nasal temperatures.
• Individuals with allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, children, older adults, and those in polluted areas are at higher risk, with indoor heating further exacerbating dryness.
• Prevention strategies include covering the nose, using humidifiers, daily saline rinses, HPMC-based nasal sprays, adequate hydration, and avoiding sudden temperature shifts.

Why It Matters: Cold winter air disrupts nasal physiology, leading to congestion and increased infection risk, necessitating preventive measures.