Addressing common ailments during harmattan

As the harmattan season tightens its grip across various cities in the country, especially the north, the familiar chill, dusty haze, cracked lips, dusty lashes, hair, dry feet and persistent coughs have returned with full force. The season, often characterised by cold mornings, hot afternoons, and extremely dry winds in the night, brings with it […]

As the harmattan season tightens its grip across various cities in the country, especially the north, the familiar chill, dusty haze, cracked lips, dusty lashes, hair, dry feet and persistent coughs have returned with full force. The season, often characterised by cold mornings, hot afternoons, and extremely dry winds in the night, brings with it an array of health challenges that oftentimes affect people of all ages, young and old.

Various medical experts, who were approached by Weekend Trust for comments, said the period requires extra attention to personal health, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, outdoor workers (traders, drivers, security guards, etc.), pregnant women, asthma patients, and people with respiratory conditions.

From dry skin and sore throats to asthma flare-ups and bronchitis, the harmattan is notorious for aggravating respiratory and dermatological issues. The experts warned that ignoring early symptoms could lead to complications.

 

Respiratory illnesses spike

Godwin Ekuwke, a medical practitioner at the Kubwa General Hospital, said respiratory conditions tend to worsen as soon as the harmattan begins.

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“The harmattan season is particularly harsh on the respiratory system because the air becomes extremely dry and laden with dust particles. People with asthma, chronic cough, sinusitis, or allergies must be especially careful because their airways are already sensitive. The sudden drop in humidity irritates the lining of the nose and throat,” Ekuwke said

He noted that common ailments seen during this period include colds, catarrh, coughs, asthma attacks, and, in severe cases, bronchitis.

To stay safe, he recommended avoiding early morning exposure and keeping essential medication close.

“Staying hydrated, limiting outdoor exposure during heavy dust hours, and using a humidifier at night can significantly reduce respiratory irritation. Asthma patients should never leave home without their inhalers, and parents should monitor children closely,” he said.

 

Spike in cold, catarrh

For many Nigerians, runny noses, sneezing, and sore throats are the most common discomforts associated with harmattan. Grace Jegede, a public health physician, said the sudden change in temperature weakens the mucous membranes, making people more susceptible to infections.

“We see a spike in flu, catarrh, and throat infections during harmattan, and most of them are preventable. Cold air slows down the natural clearing mechanism of the upper airway, and dust introduces irritants and microbes. Together, they create the perfect environment for respiratory infections,” Mrs Jegede noted. 

She emphasised the importance of maintaining proper hygiene and staying warm.

“Regular hand washing helps prevent transmission of viruses that cause colds. People should drink warm fluids, cover their nose and mouth outdoors, and dress properly, especially children. Many children fall ill simply because they leave home underdressed,” she said.

She also recommended steam inhalation as an easy home remedy.

“A bowl of hot water with steam inhaled under a towel can help clear nasal congestion. Just ensure it’s done safely,” she said

 

Skin not left out

A dermatologist, Chukwuemeka Ada, warned that the harmattan season is one of the harshest periods for the skin. The dry wind strips moisture from the surface of the skin, leaving it flaky and prone to cracks.

“Harmattan severely dehydrates the skin, and many people underestimate how quickly this can lead to cracks and secondary infections. The lips, feet, hands, and face are particularly vulnerable because they are exposed,” she said.

She emphasised the need for moisturisation and hydration.

“People should use oil-based moisturisers, petroleum jelly, or shea butter to lock in moisture. For the lips, use a protective lip balm regularly. And most importantly, drink enough water; hydration starts from the inside,” Ada advised.

While warning against excessive bathing with hot water, she said, “Many people like to bathe with very hot water during harmattan, but hot water strips the skin of natural oils. Warm water is sufficient, and moisturisers should be applied immediately after bathing.”

 

ENT specialists advise caution

Cracked voices, itchy throats, and persistent dryness are common complaints this season. An Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Specialist, Chukwura Joseph, said throat infections increase significantly due to the dusty air.

“We see more cases of catarrh and throat infections during harmattan because the airway is constantly irritated by dust and cold air. Saline nasal sprays, steam inhalation, and warm fluids can help soothe the airway,” Joseph said.

He urged people not to ignore persistent symptoms.

“Don’t ignore a prolonged sore throat. Check early so it doesn’t worsen. A simple sore throat, if neglected, can develop into a more serious infection,” he advised.

Encouraging Nigerians to adopt nasal hygiene, he said, “Cleaning the nose with mild saline solutions helps reduce congestion and irritation.

 “People who spend a lot of time outdoors should also consider wearing light masks to reduce dust inhalation.”

 

Protecting children

According to paediatricians, children are among the most affected during harmattan because their immune systems and respiratory tracts are still developing. They recommended extra precautions.

A paediatric respiratory specialist at Kubwa General Hospital, Dr Aliyu Ibrahim, said, “Children breathe faster than adults, which means they inhale more dust.” This, he said, increases their risk of cough, catarrh, asthma attacks, and bronchitis.

He emphasised warm clothing and cleansing habits.

“Children should wear sweaters in the morning and evening. Parents must avoid letting them play outside during heavy dust. Also, wiping their nose gently and ensuring they drink enough water helps keep the airways moist,” Dr Ibrahim said.

He added that schoolbags should contain hand sanitisers and clean handkerchiefs.

“Schools should also ensure classrooms have good ventilation and reduced dust exposure,” she said.

 

Eye protection

Ophthalmologists say eye irritation, redness, and watery eyes are common complaints during harmattan.

An eye specialist at Federal Medical Centre Abeokuta, Dr Taiwo Okanla, explained why.

“Dust particles enter the eyes more easily because harmattan wind is fast and dry. This leads to irritation and can worsen conditions like conjunctivitis,” he told Weekend Trust.

He recommended that “people should wear sunglasses when outdoors and avoid rubbing their eyes. Artificial tears can help keep the eyes moist. Those who use contact lenses should be extra careful or switch to glasses during this period.”

 

Nutrition: Eating right during harmattan

Nutrition experts say food choices also play a role in staying healthy during harmattan.

Dr Folarin Ogundele, a clinical nutritionist, said the body’s hydration and immunity need extra support.

“People tend to drink less water in cold weather, but harmattan demands increased hydration. Water-rich fruits like oranges, pineapples, cucumbers, and watermelon are very helpful,” Ogundele said.

According to her, foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E help protect the skin, lungs, and immune system.

“Citrus fruits, leafy vegetables, carrots, nuts, and whole grains improve the body’s response to dryness and infections,” she said.

 

Home remedies that actually work

The doctors agree that some simple remedies can help reduce discomfort:

They include gargling warm salt water for sore throats; steam inhalation for congestion; honey and ginger tea for soothing coughs; using petroleum jelly on feet, lips, and elbows; keeping bedrooms humid with a bowl of water or humidifier; and wiping dusty surfaces regularly.

Dr Ogundele stressed that remedies should not replace medical care when symptoms persist.

“If a cough lasts more than a week or becomes severe, seek medical attention,” she said.

 

Staying healthy not impossible

The doctors agree on one thing: harmattan may be harsh, but its health impacts are largely preventable with awareness and simple daily habits.

“As long as you moisturise, hydrate, protect your airway, and avoid unnecessary exposure, you can stay perfectly healthy during harmattan,”  Dr Ibrahim said.

Echoing the same sentiment, Dr Ekuwke said, “Harmattan is not the enemy; lack of preparation is. A few preventive steps can make the season comfortable,” he said.