Is the old wives' tale true? Can you really catch a cold by going out in the cold weather without a coat?
Although cold temperatures may not directly produce illness, there are reasons to believe the cold, dry winter months can exacerbate symptoms and make it more likely to suffer from common ear, nose and throat issues.
Staying Indoors
During the winter months we tend to stay indoors, living in close quarters, which can result in decreased fresh air, especially with multiple people living under the same roof. This increases the spread of viruses which are a common source of sore throat, nasal congestion, sinus issues and ear infections.
Staying indoors also keeps us in closer proximity to household allergens such as dust, mold, and pet dander. These irritants can cause our noses to secrete more which manifests as a runny nose. This leads to increased nose blowing which can predispose us to nose bleeds. The increased secretions can also drain down the back of the throat which can irritate this lining and cause sore throat symptoms.
Running the Furnace or Fireplace
The colder temperatures also increases the time we run our furnaces or fireplaces which can decrease the humidity of the already dry air. The mucus membranes lining our nose and throats are a protective barrier from pathogens such as viruses. Heating our homes tends to dry out the air which reduces the protective capacity of these mucus membranes allowing viruses to penetrate the nose and throat. The more viruses that enter our airways the higher the chance of contracting the virus and experiencing illness.
Dry Air
The mucosa lining the inside of the nose is also chalked full of small blood vessels which play a role in warming and humidifying the air we breathe to condition this air before it enters the lungs. If this lining becomes too dry, these vessels can crack and bleed. This can be made worse by excessive nose blowing which is also more common during the winter months.
How the Sinuses Work
The sinuses are a complex labyrinth of air pockets within the bones of our face and nose. The sinuses tend to have small passages which communicate with the nose.
The sinuses are lined with the same mucosa that lines the nose and throat, all of which secretes mucus as a cleaning mechanism. As long as these passages are open the sinuses are able to ventilate and drain appropriately. Irritants such as viruses, allergens, and dry air can irritate this lining leading to congestion of this mucosal lining.
When congestion occurs, especially for extended periods of time, the sinuses are not able to ventilate or drain which leads to sinus infections.
What Can You Do to Keep Your Sinuses Healthy This Winter? 
Aside from moving to a tropical paradise, we can’t control the outside temperatures or humidity of the air, but there are some strategies to decrease your chances of getting sick:
- Prevent the spread of viruses
- Wash your hands frequently
- Cover your mouth/nose when coughing or sneezing
- Avoid contact with others that have a cold
- Combat dry winter air
- Use a humidifier
- Moisturize the nose and nasal lining
- Spray nasal saline (watch the quick video below on the proper way to administer nasal spray)
- Apply ointments such as petroleum jelly
- Avoid excessive nose blowing
- When using tissues, only wipe the outside of the nose
- Do not put fingers or tissues inside the nose as this can inadvertently cause bleeding
Viral Illnesses
Typically viral illnesses (IE: common cold, influenza, etc.) run their course in a week or two. Viral illnesses typically are self limiting and require symptomatic therapy only. Some viral illnesses can progress to bacterial infections which typically persist beyond two weeks and often require medical therapy.
If you are suffering from these issues beyond this timeframe or if they seem to occur every winter or never go away, call Prairie Lakes Ear, Nose, Throat and Facial Plastic Surgery Clinic at 605-882-7740. Our experts, Dr. Mancell and Rachel Leiseth, PA would be happy to help you identify the underlying problem and get you feeling your best.
Dr. Jered Mancell, Otolaryngologist (ENT)