EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — It's the time of year when people start turning on the heat, but the transition to dryer air can have some negative effects on your sinuses. Dr. Paul Larson, the chief of primary care at Brown University Health, says many people may feel congested or experience allergy flare-ups and nose bleeds around this time. "Once people start shutting their windows and turning on their heating, it's quite common that people will suffer the effects of dry air, particularly during sleeping," Larson explained. The dry air can inflame your nasal passages, cause congestion and make it harder to sleep. You can also become more susceptible to getting sinus infections or catching colds. Here are Larson's tips for alleviating those symptoms: Use a humidifier Larson's biggest tip is to use a humidifier when you sleep. "A good investment into a good bedroom humidifier is going to be our best advice. That is going to reduce the chance of getting an infection or cold, it's going to reduce the allergen irritation and help our asthmatics." If you use a humidifier, it's important to clean it regularly. Stay hydrated Larson recommends staying hydrated. "If you drink a good amount of water during the day, that's going to be able to help your mucus membranes maintain that moisture as you go to bed at night," he said. Avoid caffeine and alcohol According to Larson, you should try and avoid caffeine and alcohol, especially later in the day, as they can make you more dehydrated and reduce the quality of your sleep. Change your filters There are more allergens and irritants floating around as your windows and doors aren't open as often. "This is the time of year to change those filters," Larson said. "That will help reduce those irritating particles floating around the air." Use the right medicine It can be hard to tell what symptoms are from dry air, allergies or a cold. "There can be very subtle differences," Larson noted. In order to make sure you're treating your symptoms correctly, it's best to check in with your doctor. "They will be able to guide you with regard to the unique different, even over-the-counter, medications which may be more beneficial for your situation," Larson said. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW