On Aconcagua Radio, Eduardo Figueroa, otolaryngologist, talks about the diseases brought by the cold.

The cold weather has hit Mendoza hard, and with it, medical consultations for respiratory illnesses have increased significantly. Eduardo Figueroa, an otolaryngologist, described the current situation as "challenging" for those who work with airway pathologies. In an interview with Aconcagua Radio , he explained the causes, the most common symptoms, and recommendations for maintaining health during these months, which are a combination of viruses, allergies, and extreme weather.

"For us, this is a challenging time. Mendoza combines cold temperatures with sudden changes in temperature and a very dry climate. This increases both respiratory infections and inflammatory diseases, such as allergies. The Zonda wind and the pollination cycle of some plant species aggravate the symptoms," Figueroa explained. The specialist explained that respiratory conditions affect all age groups, although some pathologies are more common at certain ages. "Otitis and rhinitis, for example, are seen more in childhood and adolescence. Pharyngitis and sinusitis tend to occur more in adults, starting at age 25," he explained.

One of the biggest risks the doctor sees is the misuse of antibiotics. "Many illnesses initially appear similar, such as chronic rhinitis and a cold. Self-medication can mean that, when we actually need antibiotics, our body won't respond well due to the alteration of the bacterial flora," he warned.

According to Figueroa, a common cold improves in 3 to 5 days. If symptoms persist or worsen with fever, it's time to seek medical advice. "Most infections begin as viral infections. If a bacterial superinfection develops later, more specific treatment is required," he added.

If rhinitis or sinusitis persists for more than 12 weeks, it is already a chronic condition, Figueroa said. In these cases, the treatment changes completely, as the causes and approach differ from those of acute conditions.

And how can we care for our airways at home? Among the most practical recommendations, the doctor highlighted the importance of ventilating the rooms at least twice a day and using humidifiers. "Heating dries out the air a lot. Having a humidifier in the room where we sleep is a very good strategy," he said.

He also emphasized the presence of pets. “Pets bring dust, mites, and pollen with them. Ideally, they shouldn't sleep on the bed or be in the bedroom,” he noted.

He also recommended a simple and inexpensive practice: nasal cleansing with saline or hypertonic solutions. “It's essential for removing inhaled particles and reducing irritation. It has no adverse effects and can be done once or twice a day. You can even prepare it at home with distilled water, salt, and baking soda,” he recommended.

Be careful with vasoconstrictors like naphazoline or oxymetazoline. “They provide quick relief, but they cause a rebound effect and dependency. In the long term, they damage the nasal mucosa,” Figueroa warned.

In short, Mendoza's climatic conditions in autumn and winter require attention to respiratory health. The specialist's message is clear: professional diagnosis, daily prevention, and responsible medication use are the keys to better breathing.

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