Winter tips from the ENT doctor

ENT-doctor's winter tips: keep warm in case of infection / Do not take nasal spray for more than a week / Dizziness training crashes

05/11/2013

Winter has many dangers. Not only with annoying colds or dry mucous membranes plague many. Especially with older people, with falling temperatures, the fear of falling falls. About one in ten complains today about dizziness symptoms, most are over 60 years. Especially in winter, they can then enjoy no walks on Advent Sunday, but usually see only treacherous ice and menacing smoothness. The best winter tips against dizziness, but also against colds knows Dr.. Uso Walter, ENT doctor from Duisburg and chairman of HNOnet-NRW:

Tip: drink a lot during colds
Contrary to popular belief, people do not catch cold because of cold, but because of viruses and bacteria. Cold fingers, toes, nose and ears favor colds and co., As they weaken the immune system and cause pathogens to enter the body more easily. In particular, the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract are a preferred portal of entry. In order to prevent them from drying out or chilling in the winter and not working properly, it is important to drink a lot and to ensure sufficient humidity, e.g. by bowls of water or wet towels on the heaters. Even warm clothes help to avoid hypothermia. Exercise, a healthy diet and immune stimulants or vitamins also strengthen the body's defenses. Do not overuse immune enhancing substances.

Tip: nose full? Use nasal sprays
Nevertheless, if bacteria manage to infect the body, saline nasal sprays will provide relief. They moisturize the mucous membranes and serve for cleaning and gentle flushing of the nasal cavities of dry, irritated and stuffy noses. Nasal douche also dissolve tough mucus and cleanse the nasal cavities. In addition, they soothe nasal mucous membranes and improve their functionality. Even decongestant nasal sprays can be helpful in an acute infection, so that sinus and middle ear remain ventilated. However, the following applies: Do not use decongestant nasal sprays and drops for more than seven days, but consult a doctor if symptoms persist.

Tip: Training for dizziness in winter
People suffering from dizziness are reluctant to go outside in the winter. The increased risk of falling in case of smoothness usually scares those affected. If there are balance problems, help with fall prevention at the ENT specialist. Everyone can support this with simple exercises at home. A distinction is made between gaze exercises, movement exercises and coordination exercises. Most ENT doctors provide exercise guidance for sufferers in their practices. Those who practice such exercises three to five times a week before and in winter are safer on their feet and less afraid of falls. In case of doubt, however, proper footwear and walking aids are an important fall prevention. (Pm)