December in Scottsdale: Tips for Preventing Sinus Infections During the Holiday Season

Snow may be rare in Scottsdale, but winter still brings its challenges. While the city avoids the frosty wonderlands seen in other states, Scottsdale’s winters can get surprisingly cold—and often come with dry air.

This lack of moisture in the air can take a toll on your sinus health. Dry air can irritate your sinus passages, leading to inflammation. When your sinus linings are inflamed, proper mucus drainage is disrupted, causing congestion and blockages. Unfortunately, this creates the perfect environment for germs, viruses, and bacteria to thrive, increasing your risk of sinus infections.

While this might sound concerning, it’s nothing a little preparation can’t handle! Taking proactive steps to protect your sinuses can help you stay healthy and enjoy the holiday season to the fullest. With a few simple tips, you can maintain optimal sinus health and keep winter woes at bay.

Prevent Sinus Infections During the Holiday Season

Use an indoor humidifier

Winter air is dry. This is not only irritating for your skin but for your sinuses as well. Dry sinuses are easily irritated, leading to inflammation, mucus buildup, congestion, and worse, sinus infections.

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Combat dry sinuses by using an indoor humidifier to put moisture back into the dry winter air.

Keep yourself hydrated

Keeping yourself hydrated is not only crucial to having a healthy lifestyle but also critical to imparting optimal moisture to dry sinuses. Drinking plenty of water will help hydrate dry sinuses and thin mucus, aiding in proper mucus drainage. This reduces the risks of further nasal congestion and sinus infections.

Nasal irrigation with nasal sprays

Nasal irrigation is an effective way to moisturize dry sinuses, break down mucus buildup, and clear sinuses. It helps you breathe better, especially if your sinuses are looking for some relief from the cold, dry, and often harsh winter air.

Steam inhalation works too

Steam inhalation is a tried and tested method to moisturize sinuses and offer relief from nasal congestion. To do this, pour hot water over a large bowl. Then, place your head above the bowl and cover your head with a towel. This traps the steam in. Then, breathe slowly through your nose. Add a few drops of camphor or eucalyptus oil for more comfort and relief.

Keep your home clean

Whether it snows or not, the colder breeze of the winter season will often encourage people to spend more time inside their homes. This makes it more important to make sure your home is clean. Regularly dust, clean, and vacuum around your home to remove common indoor irritants like dust mites and pet dander.

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Additionally, regularly change your bedding so you sleep in a comfortable and clean bed.

Know your triggers and avoid them

If you know you have allergies, pay attention to what your triggers are. This makes it easier for you to avoid them and prevent stirring up your allergies. Wearing face masks and protective gear and clothing, staying indoors, and taking your allergy medications can further help manage your symptoms and the occurrence of your allergies.

Keep yourself healthy

Keeping yourself healthy is key to preventing sinus infections and further health complications. Maintain a healthy diet of nutrient and vitamin-rich foods and make sure you’re drinking more than enough water every day. Get enough sleep every night and exercise regularly. Vitamin supplements may be a good addition to your diet too. Always wash your hands to prevent the spread of germs and viruses and never touch your nose, mouth, and eyes with unwashed hands.

Stay Healthy in December With Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy

At Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy, we want nothing more than to help our patients fully enjoy their holidays and precious time with friends and family. Although the cold winter season makes people more susceptible to sinus infections and issues, making healthy choices can keep you and your sinuses in optimal health.

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If you want to learn more about how you can keep your sinuses healthy, schedule a consultation with us today!

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