Consisting mostly of coastal land surrounded by warm waters, Florida is the second most humid state in the U.S., behind only Alaska. While we love the year-round sunshine in Florida, this humidity can be uncomfortable, especially during the hottest periods of the year. Unfortunately, humidity can also present various complications for your ear, nose, and throat health.
Keep reading to learn more about how Florida’s humidity can affect your ears, nose, and throat—and what to do about it.
How Humidity Affects Ear Health
Humidity increases moisture in the ear canal. This heightens the risk of bacterial and fungal growth, which may lead to ear infections. Also, Florida’s humid conditions can alter your earwax, making it softer and more likely to cause blockages.
If you wear hearing aids, humidity can present additional challenges. Hearing aids can trap moisture within the ear, which may lead to deep infections. High moisture levels in the air can even damage hearing aids, causing them to break or malfunction.
How Humidity Affects Nose Health
Humidity can have various negative effects on your nose. It prevents the cilia (the small hairs in your nose) from effectively removing irritants and allergens from your nose. This can increase your risk of sinus infections and nasal allergy symptoms, like sneezing, runny nose, and congestion.
How Humidity Affects Throat Health
Florida’s high humidity levels can increase mucus production in the nose and throat, causing post-nasal drip, congestion, coughing, and sneezing. Also, by priming the throat for bacterial and viral growth, humidity can lead to more frequent infections.
How to Deal With Humidity in Florida
For Floridians, exposure to high humidity levels is inevitable. However, using a dehumidifier in your home can help prevent uncomfortable ear, nose, and throat symptoms, especially while you sleep. Limiting your exposure to allergens like pollen, pet dander, and dust can also help.
If you’re struggling with persistent ear, nose, or throat symptoms in Florida, the team at ENT Associates is here to help. Schedule an appointment at one of our clinic locations today!
