Say goodbye to stuffy noses: 10 monsoon hygiene habits
Use a saline nasal spray
Regularly rinse your nasal passages with saline spray to flush out allergens, dust, and pathogens. It keeps mucous membranes moist and reduces the risk of infection buildup.
Stay indoors during heavy rains
Avoid going out during peak rainfall when airborne bacteria, pollutants, and mould levels spike. Damp air can aggravate nasal congestion and trigger infections, especially in sensitive individuals.
Keep your home ventilated
Ensure proper airflow to prevent mould and dampness. Use exhaust fans or open windows strategically to reduce humidity, a key breeding ground for nasal irritants and fungal spores.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts
Switching between rain-soaked streets and cold air-conditioned rooms can shock your sinuses. Use a light scarf or jacket to help your body adjust gradually to temperature changes.
Drink warm herbal teas
Ginger, tulsi, and turmeric teas boost immunity and soothe inflamed nasal passages. Their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help protect against seasonal infections and throat irritation.
Steam inhalation
Inhale steam with eucalyptus oil or plain hot water. This loosens mucus, opens sinuses, and kills airborne germs that can lodge in your nasal passages during humid conditions.
Avoid street food and cold drinks
Contaminated food and chilled beverages weaken your immune response. Stick to warm, home-cooked meals and clean water to avoid bacterial exposure that can lead to nasal or throat infections.
Use a dehumidifier
Too much indoor moisture promotes mould growth, which triggers sinus infections. A dehumidifier maintains healthy humidity levels, protecting your nasal passages from airborne fungal spores.
Maintain personal hygiene
Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face. Viruses and bacteria easily enter the body through the nose, especially during the monsoon when surfaces are frequently contaminated.
Strengthen immunity
Eat a nutrient-rich diet with vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants. A strong immune system is your best defence against seasonal infections targeting the nasal and respiratory systems.