What Is the Connection Between Dry Air and ENT Health?

People in the United States spend an average of 90% of their time indoors. When we spend a lot of time in one place, it’s crucial to ensure that place doesn’t negatively impact our health. Too much dry air in your home is one way that your environment can affect you. Let’s look at a few ways dry air can impact your ear, nose and throat health and what you can do to prevent adverse side effects.

How Can Dry Air Impact Your ENT Health?

Many people know dry air can irritate your eyes and cause dehydrated skin. This is most commonly seen on airplanes or when driving long distances because cars and planes circulate air without moisture. Similar to the effect it has on your eyes and skin, dry air can draw moisture out of your nose and throat, leading to conditions including:

• Sore throat. A sore throat is an irritation or scratching sensation caused by swelling or infection. Dry indoor air is more likely to cause a sore throat if you breathe through your mouth due to chronic nasal congestion or other breathing issues.
• Nosebleeds. When the thin, delicate tissues lining your nose are dried, they are prone to cracking and bleeding. Approximately 60% of people will have a nosebleed at least once in their life. Although only about 10% of these cases are severe enough to require medical treatment, nosebleeds can be an unwanted side effect of dry air.
• Respiratory problems. Your sinuses and nose have mucus that actively traps and prevents viruses, bacteria and other irritants from entering your system. When air dries out the mucus, you are more exposed to respiratory infections, including asthma, bronchitis and sinus infections.

How Can You Prevent the Effects of Dry Air?

A few excellent ways to prevent dry air from causing ENT-related health issues include:

• Use a humidifier. A humidifier is an excellent option when the air in your home is too dry. Set your humidifier to maintain moisture levels between 40% and 60%.
• Drink water. Staying hydrated can help combat the effects of dry air in your home. Every person requires different amounts of water but drinking at least eight cups daily is a good rule of thumb. If you are concerned you are more dehydrated than you should be, contact your provider to help determine the right amount of water for you.
• Go outside. Spending time outdoors is not only a great way to decrease your exposure to dry indoor air, but research shows that spending time in green spaces can improve your overall mental and physical health. Try adding a walk around Centre Square Park to your daily routine to help you get a little more fresh air.  

For more information on caring for your ENT health, contact today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.