Runny Nose Remedies for Cold Weather and Seasonal Changes

Cold weather and seasonal changes can bring on various challenges for our bodies and routines. The severe cold and continuous coughing make our body more ill. Let’s find out how weather can impact us:
 

1. Weather-related health effects

• • Runny nose & congestion: Cold air can irritate nasal passages, while dry indoor heat can worsen congestion.  
  • Dry skin: Lower temperatures and humidity levels can strip skin of moisture, leading to dryness or irritation. Use a richer moisturizer, drink plenty of water, and consider a humidifier at night. 
  • Seasonal illnesses: Cold and flu viruses thrive in colder weather. Be sure to wash your hands often, boost your immunity with nutrient-rich foods, and consider a flu shot if recommended. 

Cold weather and seasonal changes also affect mood and energy levels, i.e., seasonal affective disorder and low energy, routine disturbance, and changes in dietary food and clothing preferences. 
Adapting to cold weather and seasonal changes is balancing comfort, wellness, and staying attuned to your body’s needs. With a few mindful adjustments, it’s possible to thrive even as the seasons shift.
A runny nose in cold weather is quite common and happens for a few reasons:
 

1. 1. Natural body reaction – When exposed to cold air, your body increases mucus production in your nasal passages. This mucus helps humidify the air before entering your lungs and moistens the nasal passages, preventing irritation. 
   2. Cold-induced rhinitis – Also known as “skier’s nose,” the condition triggers nerve endings in your nose, causing it to run more. People who are sensitive to temperature changes may experience this more frequently. 
   3. Dry indoor air – When moving from cold outdoor air to warm, dry indoor air, the sudden shift can irritate the nasal lining, causing a runny nose as your body works to adapt to both environments. 
   4. Temperature and humidity difference – The difference between cold, dry outdoor air and warm, humidified indoor air can create condensation in your nasal passages, leading to a runny nose.
      
      Dealing with a runny nose during cold weather or seasonal changes is very common and frustrating. Here are some runny nose remedies that may help:

1. 1. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus, making it easier for your body to clear out congestion. Warm teas (like ginger or peppermint) can also be soothing and help open up your nasal passages. 

1. 2. Use a humidifier: Dry air in the winter can irritate nasal passages, making congestion worse. Running a humidifier in your room can add moisture to the air, helping ease symptoms. Be sure to clean it regularly to prevent bacteria buildup. 

1. 3. Saline nasal rinse: A saline spray or rinse (like a neti pot) can help wash away allergens and mucus. This can be especially useful if you are dealing with seasonal allergies on top of a runny nose. 

1. 4. Steam: Steam inhalation (from a hot shower or leaning over a hot water bowl with a towel over your head) can help relieve mucus and nasal congestion. Adding eucalyptus oil drops to the water can further help. 

1. 5. Warm compress: Placing a warm, damp washcloth over your nose and sinuses for a few minutes can ease discomfort and promote mucus drainage. 

1. 7. Stay warm: Keeping your body warm overall helps regulate your body’s responses to the cold, which can help reduce mucus production and keep nasal passages comfortable. 

1. 6. Spicy foods: Eating spicy foods (like chili peppers or horseradish) can temporarily open up nasal passages, relieving a runny nose. However, be mindful if you’re sensitive to spices. 

1. 7. Ginger and honey tea: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, and honey can soothe an irritated throat. Tea with fresh ginger and honey can be soothing for nasal and throat symptoms. 

1. 8. Avoid irritants: Smoke, strong perfumes, and other environmental irritants can worsen a runny nose. Try to avoid them when possible. 

1. 9. Over-the-counter remedies or runny nose medicine: You may consider decongestants or antihistamines if natural methods don’t provide enough relief. Saline nasal sprays are generally safe, but check with a healthcare provider if uncertain about them. Flomist nasal spray 100 metered doses 50 mcg, Duonase nasal spray 150 mcg 50 mcg (70 doses), and Seroflo rotacaps 50mcg 50 mcg are a few common medicine for flowing nose that can be considered to treat your condition. Consult a doctor to know more about effective drugs for runny nose and take the prescribed medicine. Also, don’t forget to ask about coughing medicine if you are experiencing a cough.  

1. 10. Rest: Sometimes, the best remedy is rest. Giving your body time to fight the cold or allergies can speed up your recovery and reduce symptoms. 

Try combining a few of these remedies for the best effect, and stay warm!