Winter Wellness: Caring for Your Ears, Nose and Throat

Posted on by Goodyear Office

It’s time to choose your 2026 New Year’s resolution. Many people focus on things like exercising or fitting more fresh produce from Summers Fruit Barn into their diet, but those aren’t the only physical wellness-focused resolutions available.

The colder months tend to bring an uptick in seasonal illnesses that can take a toll on your ears, nose and throat (ENT). This year, make caring for your ENT health one of your resolutions.  

Why Winter Illnesses Impact ENT Health

Woman wrapped in a blanket, holding a cup of tea and looking out the window.

Colds and the flu are more common during winter, largely because people spend more time indoors and in close contact with one another.

When you develop a cold or flu, inflammation often affects the delicate tissues of the nose, throat and ears. The Eustachian tubes, which help regulate pressure and drain fluid from the middle ear, can become blocked, creating the perfect environment for secondary problems to develop. As a result, winter illnesses may lead to lingering ENT concerns such as ear or sinus infections, postnasal drip or persistent coughing.

While these issues often begin with a simple virus, they can become uncomfortable or disruptive if not managed properly.

Reducing Your Risk During Cold and Flu Season

Although it’s impossible to avoid every germ, taking proactive steps can significantly lower your chances of getting sick. Protecting your ENT health starts with everyday prevention habits, including:

  • Receiving your annual flu vaccination
  • Limiting close contact with people who are ill
  • Practicing frequent handwashing with soap and water
  • Avoiding sharing drinks, food or utensils
  • Disinfecting commonly touched surfaces like phones, remote controls and door handles

These small actions can go a long way in reducing the spread of viruses during peak illness months.

Managing Symptoms When You’re Sick

If you do catch a cold or the flu, early symptom management is key to preventing ENT complications. Reducing inflammation and supporting drainage can help your ears, nose and throat function more efficiently. Depending on your symptoms, you could try taking over-the-counter medication, drinking plenty of fluids, irrigating your nasal passages or applying warm and cool compresses to the sinuses and ears.

When To Seek Professional Care

Most ENT symptoms improve as the underlying illness resolves. However, if congestion, ear pain, sinus pressure or coughing lasts longer than a week or worsens, it may be time to seek professional care. If you’re experiencing ongoing ENT issues this winter, contact Goodyear Office today.