When traveling abroad, you may sometimes experience unexpected physical changes. One of these is “nasal problems.” Many travelers have experienced an itchy nose, increased nasal discharge, or more nasal mucus while traveling. In this article, we’ll explore the causes and countermeasures in detail.
Nasal Issues Are Common During International Travel
An itchy nose, runny nose, or increased nasal mucus during travel is a common phenomenon experienced by many travelers. It’s generally believed to be caused by differences in climate and environment, occurring as the body tries to adapt to a new environment. While these symptoms are often temporary, understanding the causes and taking appropriate measures is important to reduce discomfort.
Possible Causes
Let’s explore the specific causes of nasal problems during international travel in detail. Note that causes cannot be definitively identified in all cases, so it’s important to consult a doctor or specialist if symptoms persist or worsen.
1. Dry Climate
Dry air can dry out the nasal mucosa, causing irritation. The nasal mucosa has a barrier function that prevents foreign objects from entering by maintaining moisture, but this barrier function decreases when it dries out. This leads to increased nasal discharge and mucus. Dryness can also cause the inner walls of the nose to crack, sometimes resulting in bleeding.
2. Sand and Dust
In areas with sandstorms or high dust levels, fine particles in the air can enter and irritate the nose. The nose tries to expel these foreign objects, resulting in increased nasal discharge and mucus. This problem is particularly notable in desert areas and rural regions. This is why camels have the special ability to close their nostrils without using their hands.
3. Allergies
Exposure to a new environment can trigger allergic reactions caused by specific plants or allergens. For example, pollen, animal hair, or dust mites can be the culprits. Allergic reactions occur when the body’s immune system reacts hypersensitively, resulting in symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion.
4. Air Conditioning Use
Air conditioners cool and dry the air, which can easily dry out the nasal mucosa when used for extended periods. This puts strain on the nasal mucosa, especially with unavoidable air conditioning use in hotels and public facilities.
5. Air Pollution
Pollutants in the air, such as exhaust fumes and factory smoke, can enter and irritate the nasal mucosa. Urban areas, in particular, have high levels of exhaust fumes from vehicles and factories, which is a major cause of nasal problems. Personally, whenever I visit Indonesia, I consistently get black nasal mucus. This is likely because carbon particles and other pollutants from exhaust fumes adhere to the inside of the nose, causing black nasal discharge.
Countermeasures
So, how can you avoid nasal problems while traveling abroad? Here are some practical countermeasures.
1. Use a Humidifier
In dry regions, it’s important to maintain humidity in your hotel room by bringing a humidifier or hanging damp towels. This helps prevent drying of the nasal mucosa.
2. Wear a Mask
In areas with severe air pollution, wearing a mask when going outside can prevent pollutants from entering your nose. N95 masks or others that effectively remove fine particles are especially recommended.
3. Rinse Your Nose with Saline Solution
Regularly rinsing your nose with saline solution is effective for keeping it clean. This helps remove dirt and allergens from the nasal cavity.
4. Bring Allergy Medication
If you have allergies, it’s reassuring to prepare allergy medication in advance. It’s especially good to bring medication if you anticipate exposure to new allergens at your destination.
5. Stay Hydrated
Maintaining your body’s water balance is also important for keeping the nasal mucosa healthy. Be sure to drink water regularly, especially in dry regions.
6. Try Local Folk Remedies
While it may lack scientific evidence, since you’re traveling, it might be worth trying local folk remedies. For example, in Thailand, you could try “Ya Dom” (inhaler) that everyone uses to temporarily clear their nose, or in the Middle East, you might try perfumes said to have effects on rhinitis. While direct effects might not be expected, it could enhance your travel experience through these nasal issues!
Conclusion
While international travel is enjoyable, nasal problems can occur due to environmental changes. Various environmental conditions such as dry regions, high-humidity areas, and regions with severe air pollution can affect the nose. By taking appropriate measures, you can minimize these issues and enjoy a comfortable trip. From my own experience, I’ve deeply realized the importance of preparation and countermeasures. I hope you’ll find this information useful for your next trip.
