As temperatures drop in Atlanta, many people notice that their runny noses, nasal congestion, and sneezing tend to get worse. For those with chronic rhinitis, cold weather can intensify symptoms and make daily life uncomfortable. Dr. Ramie A. Tritt at Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C. helps patients manage chronic rhinitis year-round, with special attention to winter triggers.
What is Chronic Rhinitis?
Chronic rhinitis occurs when the tissues lining your nasal passages remain inflamed for more than four weeks. This can lead to persistent symptoms such as:
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Postnasal drip
- Itchy, watery, or red eyes
- Chronic cough
- Headaches
While allergies are a common cause, non-allergic triggers—like cold air, smoke, and air pollution—can also worsen symptoms, especially in winter.
How Cold Weather Triggers Chronic Rhinitis
Cold air can irritate the sensitive lining of your nasal passages, causing blood vessels to swell and mucus production to increase. This natural response, while protective, can lead to:
- Increased nasal congestion
- Persistent runny nose
- Sneezing fits
- Dryness or irritation in the nasal cavity
In addition, winter often brings indoor heating, which can dry out nasal passages and further exacerbate symptoms. People with underlying allergies may notice more severe reactions to indoor allergens like dust mites, mold, and pet dander during the colder months.
Tips for Managing Chronic Rhinitis in Winter
- Use a Humidifier – Adding moisture to indoor air helps prevent dryness and reduces nasal irritation.
- Stay Hydrated – Drinking plenty of water keeps mucus thin and easier to clear.
- Avoid Triggers – Limit exposure to smoke, strong odors, and indoor allergens whenever possible.
- Saline Nasal Sprays – Gentle saline sprays can help flush out irritants and relieve congestion.
- Follow Your Treatment Plan – If you have prescribed medications like antihistamines or steroid nasal sprays, use them consistently to prevent flare-ups.
For patients whose symptoms don’t improve with medication, minimally invasive procedures like VivAer®, RhinAer®, ClariFix®, or Neuromark can provide lasting relief from chronic nasal congestion and turbinate hypertrophy.
When to Call an Atlanta ENT Specialist
If your chronic rhinitis symptoms worsen in winter despite home care, it’s time to seek professional help. Dr. Ramie A. Tritt and his team provide personalized treatment plans for both allergic and non-allergic chronic rhinitis.
Locations & Contact Information:
Atlanta Office:
5555 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, Suite 125, Atlanta, GA 30342
Author
Ramie A. Tritt, MD
Ramie A. Tritt, MD, FRCSC, specializes in nasal and sinus surgery as well as snoring and sleep apnea surgery at Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C.’s Sandy Springs location in Atlanta, Georgia.
Dr. Tritt graduated from medical school with honors from McGill University in Montreal, Canada. He completed his otolaryngology residency at McGill University and his fellowship in otology and head and neck surgery at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, New York.
He is a diplomate of the American Board of Otolaryngology and a fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Dr. Tritt is a member of the Medical Association of Georgia and the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.
Dr. Tritt has been an instructor at national ENT meetings, a Medical Advisory Board member for computer image-guided sinus surgery, and been recognized by Atlanta Magazine as a “Doctor Who Doctors Go To”.
