Winter ENT Health in New Orleans: How to Prepare for Colder Weather

When temperatures drop in New Orleans and surrounding areas like Metairie or Kenner, most people think about gumbo season, Saints football, and pulling out sweaters. But winter also brings changes that can affect your ears, nose, and throat. Dry air, indoor heating, and seasonal viruses can all take a toll on your ENT health — especially for those who already struggle with allergies or sinus issues.

With this guide from ENT & Allergy of New Orleans, you can now understand how the colder months impact your body and can help you stay healthier and more comfortable until spring.

Why Cold Weather Can Be Tough on the ENT System

Even though New Orleans doesn’t see freezing winters, we do experience sharp drops in humidity and frequent temperature swings. For some individuals, these changes may dry out the nasal passages, irritate the throat, and increase susceptibility to certain infections.

• Dry Air and Sinus Problems: When the air is dry, the mucus lining inside your nose and sinuses thickens. This makes it harder for your body to clear out dust, germs, and allergens — which can lead to sinus pressure, congestion, or even infection.
• Indoor Heating and Air Quality: Running the heater can make the air inside your home or office even drier. Combined with dust or pet dander that’s stirred up when you close the windows, it can trigger sneezing, postnasal drip, and sore throats.
• Cold and Flu Viruses: People spend more time indoors and in close contact during the winter. This makes it easier for viruses to spread, leading to colds, sore throats, and ear infections.

Common ENT Problems During Winter

These symptoms are particularly common in patients from Uptown, Mid-City, Metairie, and the West Bank who visit our New Orleans ENT clinic during the winter:

• Sinus Infections (Sinusitis): Often caused by lingering congestion or bacterial buildup after a cold.
• Ear Infections: When congestion blocks the Eustachian tube, fluid can build up behind the eardrum, leading to pain or pressure.
• Sore Throat and Tonsillitis: Dry air and viral infections can inflame the throat and tonsils.
• Allergic Reactions: Even in winter, indoor allergens like mold, dust mites, and pet dander are active.

If symptoms persist beyond 10 days or include facial pain or hearing changes, it’s a good idea to consult with an ENT specialist to determine the underlying cause.

How to Protect Your Ears, Nose, and Throat This Winter

Simple preventive steps can make a big difference:

1. Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air helps protect your nasal passages and throat. Keep humidity levels around 40–50%.
2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to thin mucus and support your body’s natural defenses.
3. Keep Up With Nasal Care: Saline sprays or nasal rinses can help clear allergens and prevent buildup.
4. Control Indoor Allergens: Vacuum often, wash bedding in hot water weekly, and replace HVAC filters regularly.
5. Dress for Temperature Changes: Sudden cold air exposure can irritate your throat and ears, so wear a scarf or light jacket when heading out.
6. Don’t Ignore Persistent Congestion: If you have long-term sinus pressure, drainage, or ear fullness, it could be more than a winter cold.

When to See an ENT in New Orleans

Persistent symptoms — especially those involving sinus pain, ear pressure, or dizziness — deserve medical attention. Your ENT can check for structural issues, chronic sinusitis, or allergy-related triggers that may worsen in cooler weather.

At ENT & Allergy of New Orleans, our team evaluates sinus and ear conditions year-round, helping patients understand what’s behind recurring congestion or throat irritation. With accurate testing and individualized treatment plans, many patients may experience symptom improvement and reduce the risk of complications.*

*Individual results may vary. Not all conditions respond the same to treatment.

Keep Your Ears, Nose, and Throat Healthy All Winter Long

Winter in New Orleans may be short, but it can still challenge your ENT health. By maintaining moisture in your environment, managing allergies, and paying attention to early warning signs, you can protect your airways and overall comfort all season long.

📍 Schedule an appointment with our New Orleans ENT specialists today to get expert care for sinus, ear, and allergy concerns this winter.