Why Winter Air Weakens Your Nasal Defences And How to Fix It.

As winter approaches, many of us experience more colds, sniffles, and sinus discomfort. With a decline in temperature, the risk of seasonal illnesses such as colds and the flu increases. Cold winter air can weaken our immune system, but why does this happen? 

Let's understand this in detail.  

Nose: Your First Line of Defence 

As air becomes drier indoors and outdoors, the nasal lining becomes irritated, weakening the body’s first line of defence. Your nose isn't just an organ for breathing and smelling; it's a frontline defence system that protects your immune health. The nasal cavity is lined with a mucous membrane and tiny hair-like structures called cilia. Both of these work together to trap bacteria, viruses, and other particles, preventing them from reaching your lungs. 

Mucus contains antibodies and antimicrobial proteins that neutralise foreign substances, while cilia sweep the mucus toward the throat for swallowing or expulsion.

How Winter Weakens the Nasal Defences of Our Body 

Dryness 

Cold weather can remove moisture from the air, and indoor heating can further dehumidify it. Dry air is not suitable for the nasal mucosa, as it dehydrates tissues and impairs the function of cilia, which clear debris. 

The membrane lining of the nasal passages traps dust, bacteria, and harmful pathogens before they reach the lungs. 

Cold air dehydrates the nasal mucosa, thereby reducing its ability to trap pathogens. Dryness can also cause irritation and microcracks in the nasal lining. 

These cracks allow pathogens to penetrate tissues directly and enter the bloodstream. The cilia, hair-like structures lining the respiratory tract, require moisture to trap pathogens and propel them toward the throat for removal. Dryness slows down or completely stops cilia movement, making it easier for pathogens to enter the body.

Temperature Effects 

When cold air enters the nasal passages, the blood vessels constrict to conserve body heat. This narrowing reduces blood flow in the nasal passages and limits the supply of white blood cells and immune proteins needed to fight infections.

Lower temperatures also weaken our nasal immune response by reducing the production of antiviral substances that typically destroy viruses. The immune cells and enzymes in our bodies work best at normal body temperature. 

Cold air slows down immune activity in the nasal passages, giving viruses a better chance to take hold. Cold temperatures create a favorable environment for bacteria and viruses, making them more likely to survive, multiply, and cause infections.

Increased Exposure 

Winter is the season when people spend more time indoors. When combined with weakened nasal defenses, this creates a perfect opportunity for colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. 

Also, in crowded indoor spaces like schools and offices, respiratory infections spread much more easily. 

A dry winter allows cough and cold droplets to linger in the air, increasing the chances of inhalation through the nose and further spreading infections. This increased exposure further weakens nasal immunity, increasing the likelihood of infections.

Simple and Effective Tips to Improve Your Nasal Defense 

Humidify your environment

Dry air can weaken the immune system and reduce mucus production. Using a humidifier helps keep the air moist and maintains healthy mucus that traps dust and pathogens. 

Stay Hydrated

In winter, we often forget to drink enough water. But for nasal health, it's essential to stay well hydrated. Proper hydration helps maintain mucus, keeping it thin and sticky and allowing your nasal defenses to work more efficiently. 

Use Saline Sprays 

Povidone nasal sprays are a safe and effective way to protect your nose in the winter. They moisturize dry nasal passages and support the natural movement of cilia to clear the nose.

Practice Nasal Hygiene

Good nasal hygiene also helps reduce the buildup of harmful pathogens. Gently clean your nasal passages to remove mucus and trapped germs. Clean nasal passages help maintain a strong first line of defense.

Conclusion

Cold weather weakens your nasal defenses by drying out mucus and increasing exposure to airborne pathogens. But with a few tips, you can improve your nasal health and build a strong defense system. Nasal sprays are an effective way to reduce the risk of colds, flu, and infections during the winter season. If you are looking to buy the best nasal sprays for a congested nose, explore our collection at Viraldine. Our nasal and throat sprays are specially formulated to keep your nasal passages clean and free from pathogens.