Winter comfort often comes with a hidden cost. As temperatures drop, room heaters become a daily necessity, turning homes into warm cocoons. But while they keep the cold out, they also dry out the air indoors, quietly affecting your body in ways many people don’t immediately notice. The first to react are usually your nose and eyes.
Medical experts explain that heated air lowers indoor humidity to a point where the body’s natural moisture barriers begin to fail. The nasal passages, which are meant to stay moist to filter and warm the air we breathe, start drying out. This can lead to a blocked or scratchy feeling in the nose, crusting, irritation and, in some cases, nosebleeds. At the same time, the eyes may begin to feel gritty, heavy or red because the thin tear layer that protects them starts evaporating faster than usual.
Experts say the nose plays a crucial role in protecting the lungs by cleaning and humidifying incoming air. When the surrounding air is too dry, the nasal lining becomes fragile and sensitive. People may notice burning sensations, frequent sneezing or repeated nosebleeds. Dry air also affects the eyes by weakening their natural lubrication, which can cause discomfort and even temporary blurred vision.
The most important first step, according to medical professionals, is fixing the humidity indoors. Using a humidifier at night, especially in the bedroom, can make a big difference. Ideally, indoor humidity should be kept at a moderate level so the air doesn’t feel parched. Simple home tricks can help too, such as placing bowls of water near heaters, hanging slightly damp towels in the room, or letting in some fresh air during the day. Indoor plants can also help balance moisture levels naturally.
When it comes to nasal care, experts advise being gentle. For dryness, thicker nasal gels are often preferred as they stay longer and form a protective layer inside the nose. Steam inhalation for a few minutes can also help soothe dryness and ease congestion, especially when done safely with plain hot water. Saline-based sprays or rinses are another safe option, as they moisturise the nasal lining and wash away irritants without causing dependency. Applying a small amount of medical-grade ointment around the nostrils before bedtime can further reduce crusting and discomfort. Doctors strongly warn against overusing decongestant sprays, as these can worsen dryness over time.
Eye care deserves just as much attention. Dry eyes are not just annoying; they signal that the eyes are losing moisture too quickly. Experts suggest using lubricating eye drops during the day to keep the eyes comfortable, and thicker eye ointments at night for longer-lasting relief. Taking regular breaks from screens is especially important in heated rooms, as prolonged screen use speeds up tear evaporation. Simple habits like looking away from screens every few minutes and blinking consciously can help. When stepping outdoors in cold, windy weather, protective glasses can reduce moisture loss from the eyes.
Finally, staying hydrated from within matters more than people realise. Medical experts note that warm fluids, such as clear soups and broths, can support moisture levels in the body better than cold drinks alone. These fluids help keep the nasal passages and eyes hydrated without the added sugars found in many packaged beverages.
In short, while heaters make winters bearable, a little care can prevent them from drying you out. Paying attention to indoor air, gentle nasal and eye care, and proper hydration can go a long way in keeping winter discomfort at bay.
