The nose knows
You may think of your nose as a pipeline for inhaling potential infections. Someone sneezes nearby and, with your next inhaled breath, those dastardly airborne viruses invade your body and torment your sinuses. But your nose is also one of your primary defenses against coming down with all the aches and pains that go along with catching a cold.
Nasal cells turn out to be able to block the rhinovirus (that's what causes a cold) as soon as you become infected, keeping it from spreading throughout your body and preventing symptoms. The nasal cells do this by releasing proteins called interferons that stimulate the immune system's antiviral defenses in both infected cells and healthy ones. One more example of "The best offense is a good defense."
You can get in on the defense by keeping your nasal passages ready to fight off infections. Avoid toxins such as first- and secondhand smoke and strong perfumes in household products that dry and irritate the nasal lining. Keep your nasal passages moist -- use a humidifier to counteract the dryness from indoor heating. Drink plenty of water (don't get thirsty) and use water-based gels to moisturize inside your nose, if needed. Also, boost your immunity with a healthy sleep routine, frequent washing of hands, an unprocessed, plant-based diet, and at least 150 minutes a week of exercise.
For more info on keeping your immune system healthy, check out my free newsletter, "How does Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE) make you and your body and mind younger?" at michaelfroizenmd.substack.com.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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