Winter: You may feel chill winds, find blankets, and always plan to eat something hot—all prompt signs that winter approaches. Unfortunately, this season brings unwanted guests, which is sickness. Have you ever wondered why your cold rises with the drop in temperature? Further, let’s know why individuals get sick more often in winter.
Why do I get cold during winter?
One common myth around winter is that cold weather causes illness, but the truth is that germs such as bacteria and viruses are the culprits. These misconceptions arise from the sudden rise in influenza cases in the low-temperature months. In such cases if home remedies are not helping you consider visiting the general medicine hospital in Coimbatore for better results. Further, the common reasons for increased illness in winter include:
- Respiratory droplets: Typically, cold air will be dry and have less humidity, which makes respiratory droplets stay longer. In case the air is humid and warm, the moisture from the air makes the droplet fall to the ground quickly.
- Dryness: During winter, the dry air will reduce the moisture on the skin and inside the mouth and nose. When your nose is dry, automatically, your body’s ability to combat germs will be reduced.
- Indoor gatherings: At this time of the year, more indoor gatherings will take place just to stay warm when the weather is getting cold. Closer connection with people inside will increase the chances of getting respiratory infections from others.
- Lower vitamin D: Immunity and vitamin D have a strong connection, and it is produced by UV radiation. During winter, both UV radiation and vitamin D will be down in production, and this could increase sickness.
What are the common winter illnesses?
The most common types of sickness that arise during winter include:
– Common cold: Colds are one of the prevalent winter ailments, which is caused by rhinoviruses. A weakened immune system and dry air will make viruses easily affect individuals’ nasal passage.
– Influenza: Usually flu viruses thrive better in low temperatures, in such cases conducting indoor activities will facilitate rapid transmission.
– Respiratory infection: Due to dry air and the prevalence of viruses, bronchitis and pneumonia are more common. Further, pre-existing conditions such as asthma will be worsened during cold weather.
– Norovirus: This is also referred to as the ‘winter vomiting bug,’ this triggers stomach flu, and it rapidly spreads in closed spaces such as schools and workplaces.
These are the common sickness in winter that may disturb individuals.
How to stay healthy during winter?
It’s crucial to understand that winter illnesses are inevitable, just by taking a few proactive steps you can potentially reduce your risk of falling sick:
– Strengthen your immune system:
Consider eating a healthy diet like foods rich in vitamins C and D, zinc, and antioxidants. Do moderate physical activities like walking, or yoga will give your immune system a boost.
– Stay warm and hydrated:
Try to wear a dress in layers to maintain your body temperature. To protect your nasal passage and throat, use a humidifier to maintain moisture in the air.
– Practice good hygiene:
Practicing good hygiene like washing hands often may look tiny but plays a huge role in reducing the spread of germs. Also, don’t touch your face often, because viruses will spread through the eyes, nose, and mouth.
– Optimize indoor air quality:
Daily open your windows for a particular period to improve ventilation. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces. Also, consider getting your annual vaccination to protect yourself from cold and fever.
– Boost mental health:
You can manage stress through mindful practices like meditation or deep breathing exercises. Make sure that you get sufficient sleep to allow your body to recover and recharge.
What are the myths about winter sickness?
Let’s debunk some misconceptions about winter sickness:
1) Cold weather causes cold:
Cold weather will never trigger your viral fever symptoms, but viruses will do. Also, this cold weather will weaken your defenses and develop conditions that are suitable for viruses to thrive.
2) Being cold in winter is a trigger:
Just being wet doesn’t directly cause sickness. Also, prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions can stress your body, making it more susceptible to infections.
3) Supplements are the cure:
Supplements such as vitamin C help support your immune system, but they are also not a guaranteed shield against colds and fevers. Simply, by following a healthy diet, lifestyle changes, and with the help of a general medicine specialist in Coimbatore you can change everything effortlessly.
Final thoughts:
In conclusion, we can say that, usually in winter, chilly winds will be outside, and we do warm gatherings inside. This will bring illness, and understanding the reason behind this trend empowers us to take proactive steps. By concentrating on your immunity, staying mindful of indoor air quality, and following good hygiene practices, you can make winter into a season of health and joy. So, next time when you feel winter chills in the air, don’t prefer using an extra sweater, follow the above-mentioned strategies to keep winter sickness at bay.
