Does Cold Make Rhinitis Worse?
Rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal lining which can cause a variety of symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, congestion, and itchy eyes. One of the most common questions people ask is whether cold weather can make rhinitis worse. The answer is yes, cold weather can make rhinitis worse.
Temperature and Humidity
Cold temperatures and low humidity can worsen rhinitis symptoms. The air inside your home is usually warmer and more humid than outside air. When the temperature and humidity drop outside, the air inside your home can become dry, which can make your symptoms worse.
Pollen and Mold
Cold weather can also make rhinitis worse by increasing the amount of pollen and mold in the air. Pollen is an allergen that can trigger an allergic reaction in your nose, and it can become more concentrated in cold weather. Similarly, mold can increase in cold weather, as the spores thrive in damp, dark environments.
Dust Mites
Dust mites are another allergen that can cause rhinitis symptoms. Dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments, so when the air is cold and dry, they tend to congregate in the warmest areas of your home, such as bedding, carpets, and furniture. This can make your symptoms worse.
Treatment
If cold weather is making your rhinitis worse, there are a few things you can do to reduce your symptoms. First, use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home. This can help to reduce dryness and make your symptoms more bearable. Second, keep your windows closed and use air conditioning if it is available. This will help to keep pollen and other allergens out of your home. Finally, if your symptoms are severe, talk to your doctor about medications or other treatment options that may be available.
By taking these steps, you can help to reduce your symptoms and make it easier to cope with cold weather and rhinitis.