Americans spend about 90% of their time indoors. When you spend so much of your time indoors, whether at home, school or work, it is crucial to ensure your environment isn’t negatively affecting your ENT health.
Why Is ENT Health Important?
ENT health, concerning the ear, nose and throat, is crucial to daily functioning and overall well-being. Good ENT health supports fundamental activities like breathing, hearing and swallowing. Issues in these areas can significantly impact quality of life and may lead to more severe health problems.
How Can Air Quality Affect ENT Health?
Dry indoor air can lead to sore throat, nosebleeds and respiratory issues.
Sore Throat
A sore throat is a pain or scratching sensation in the throat brought on by inflammation. While viral or bacterial infections are the most common causes, dry air can lead to a sore throat by drawing moisture from the area.
Nosebleeds
Approximately 60% of people will experience a nosebleed at least once in their life, though only about 10% of those nosebleeds will require medical care. Dry air can cause the delicate tissues inside your nose to crack and bleed. While most nosebleeds are not severe, they are a common and bothersome symptom of dry indoor air.
Respiratory Issues
The mucus in your sinuses serves as a barrier, trapping viruses, bacteria and other irritants to prevent them from entering your body. When the air in your environment is too dry, it can dehydrate this mucus, leaving you more susceptible to respiratory infections such as asthma, bronchitis and sinus infections.
How Can You Protect Your ENT System From Dry Air
Hydration is key to combatting the effects of dry air. Two ways to promote healthy hydration include drinking plenty of water and using a humidifier where possible.
In addition to staying hydrated, regular outdoor activities can reduce your exposure to dry indoor air and boost your overall health. Consider incorporating daily walks in areas like Union Park for extra exposure to fresh air.
To learn more about managing your ENT health, contact South Valley Ear Nose & Throat – West Jordan to schedule an appointment with our specialists.