why does flu come in winter

Dealing with Nasal Congestion in Winter

With the cold weather setting in, so too is one of the most frustrating winter complications – nasal congestion. There’s nothing quite like a blocked nose in winter to make you feel miserable. Whether it’s during the workday, while trying to fall asleep, or when you just want to enjoy a hot cup of tea, nasal congestion can make it hard to breathe and even cause a sinus headache or a cough. But why does it seem like we’re more prone to a blocked nose during winter, and how can we find relief?

Nasal congestion and the cold

Your nose is an incredible organ, acting as the first line of defence against the outside world. Your nose warms, moistens, and filters the air you breathe. But winter brings a combination of environmental changes that interfere with this process.

Cold, dry air

When you breathe in cold air, your nasal passages have to warm the air before it reaches your lungs. The cold air can cause the blood vessels inside your nose to constrict, leading to that familiar congested feeling. At the same time, winter air holds less moisture, which dries out your nasal lining making it more prone to inflammation, irritation and mucus.

Artificial heating

While heaters keep your home toasty, they also strip the air of humidity, contributing to your mucous membranes becoming dehydrated. This again can cause irritation and inflammation and contributes to blocked noses during winter.

Sudden temperature changes

Going from a cosy lounge straight into the chilly outdoors can shock your system. Your nasal passages react by narrowing, which restricts airflow and creates the sensation of a blocked nose, even if you’re perfectly healthy.
how to keep your nose moist at night during winter

Why does flu come in winter?

In addition to these factors, you also have the dreaded winter colds and flu contributing to your blocked nose in winter. The cold, dry winter air not only causes irritation in your nasal passage, but it also reduces your nose’s ability to filter viruses, making it easier for infections to take hold.

Add to this the fact that we spend more time indoors, heaters on, and in close proximity to people and you have the perfect environment for viruses to pass from person to person.

lady with blocked nose during winter

How to manage a blocked nose during winter

Luckily, there are some steps you can take to manage your nose during the winter months.

Use a humidifier

Nasal congestion due to the cold is born out of dryness. Using a humidifier adds moisture into the air, giving your nasal membranes a much-needed break. Humidifiers can be used at any time but are very good for keeping your nose moist at night during winter.

Stay hydrated

Drinking lots of water and staying hydrated can help keep your mucous membranes hydrated from the inside out. Staying hydrated can also support your immune function, helping you reduce your chances of catching a cold or the flu.

Keep your head and nose warm

Going from a warm room straight into the icy outdoors can cause irritation. Keeping your head and nose warm using a scarf can help reduce the shock on your system and minimise congestion symptoms. You can also try take it slow when moving between different temperature environments.

Medication

When it comes to a blocked nose in winter, colds and flu are often the culprit. Decongestants like Sinucon Nasal Drops can provide rapid, lasting relief from nasal congestion. Sinucon Nasal drops work at the source, helping to reduce swelling in the nasal passage, providing you with symptomatic relief.

Nasal congestion during the winter months can be frustrating, especially when it interferes with daily comfort, sleep, and breathing. From cold, dry air to sudden temperature changes and increased time indoors, winter creates the perfect conditions for a blocked nose.

Simple strategies like staying hydrated, using a humidifier, and dressing warmly can go a long way in managing congestion. For more rapid, targeted relief, Sinucon Nasal Drops provide symptomatic relief of nasal congestion. So, whether you’re facing a blocked nose in winter or trying to breathe easier during flu season, Sinucon can help bring relief when you need it most.

References
  1. Cleveland Clinic. Nasal Congestion. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17980-nasal-congestion. Last Accessed July 2025.
  2. Los Angeles Center for Ear, Nose, Throat and Allergy. Available from: https://www.laent.com/about/our-practice/blog/sinuses-and-cold-weather/. Last Accessed July 2025.
  3. WebMD. Manage Dry Indoor Air This Winter. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/women/dry-indoor-air. Last Accessed July 2025.

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