ENT Tips: Keeping Kids Healthy During Cold and Flu Season

As the school year is in full swing and the cool autumn air settles into Columbia, it's a season of new beginnings, excitement, and unfortunately, an uptick in colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. Schools are a breeding ground for germs, especially as students spend hours together indoors, sharing everything from books to, unfortunately, viruses. ENT-related issues, such as nasal congestion, sore throats, and sinus discomfort, are especially common during this time, and with cooler temperatures on the way, maintaining a strong immune system becomes even more crucial.

To help your kids stay healthy and thrive academically, here are some practical ENT tips for navigating the season.

1. Prioritize Handwashing

Encourage your children to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly. Handwashing is the most effective way to prevent the spread of germs. Teach them to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds, especially before meals and after using the restroom, playing outside, or touching shared surfaces.

2. Encourage Proper Hydration

Drinking plenty of water keeps nasal passages moist and helps the immune system function optimally. Dehydration can lead to dryness in the nasal passages, making it easier for germs to take hold. Encourage your child to carry a water bottle to school and drink regularly.

3. Use a Saline Spray

Keeping the nasal passages moist helps prevent sinus congestion and infections, which are often triggered by dry air. A simple, non-medicated saline spray can help clear out irritants, bacteria, and viruses from nasal passages. This can be especially helpful during allergy season or when the weather is dry.

4. Don’t Skip Breakfast

A healthy breakfast is essential for maintaining energy levels, but it also supports the immune system. Including fruits rich in vitamins, such as oranges or berries, can give kids a boost of immune-supporting nutrients like vitamin C. A balanced breakfast sets kids up to be more resilient to viruses.

5. Manage Allergies Before They Become a Problem

Fall often brings its share of allergy triggers, including ragweed and mold. If your child has allergies, make sure to manage symptoms early with antihistamines or decongestants, as prescribed by their healthcare provider. Treating allergies promptly can help prevent sinus congestion from progressing into infections.

6. Teach Kids to Avoid Face Touching

Children often touch their faces without realizing it, which can easily introduce germs into the body through the nose, mouth, or eyes. Remind them to avoid touching their face, and consider having them carry a small hand sanitizer for when handwashing isn’t available.

7. Focus on Quality Sleep

Sleep is essential for a strong immune system. School schedules can be demanding, but ensuring kids get adequate rest helps their bodies fight off infections. Encourage a consistent bedtime routine and limit screen time in the hour before bed to help them get the rest they need.

8. Know When to See an ENT Specialist

If your child frequently suffers from sore throats, sinus infections, or allergy symptoms, it may be worth consulting an ENT specialist. Chronic sinusitis, recurring ear infections, or persistent nasal congestion can affect your child’s overall health and school performance. At Columbia Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers, we specialize in helping kids and families manage ENT issues, providing targeted treatments that bring lasting relief.

9. Keep Indoor Air Clean

Since kids spend more time indoors as temperatures drop, it’s important to maintain a clean home environment. Regularly vacuuming, dusting, and using an air purifier can reduce exposure to dust, pet dander, and mold—common irritants that can lead to sinus or allergy symptoms.

Wrapping Up

Helping your child stay healthy during the school year doesn’t have to be complicated. By encouraging good hygiene, focusing on a balanced diet, and paying attention to ENT health, you can support your child’s ability to thrive and enjoy the season without the setbacks of constant colds or sinus issues. If ENT concerns persist, Columbia Breathe Free is here to help with expert care tailored to your family’s needs. Together, let’s make this school year a healthy, happy one!