New Delhi: Seasonal changes, particularly the transition to colder months, can have a significant impact on respiratory health. With temperature drops and reduced humidity, the risk of infections, including the flu, common cold, and other respiratory illnesses, increases substantially. Understanding the effects of seasonal changes and adopting preventive measures can help protect your health.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr Manjunath PH, Consultant – Interventional Pulmonologist, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, Bengaluru, explained how changing seasons affect health.
Why Infections Rise During Colder Months
The colder months create an environment conducive to the spread of viruses. Several factors contribute to this:
Reduced Humidity: Dry air weakens the natural defense mechanisms of the respiratory tract, making it easier for viruses to penetrate and infect the body.
Indoor Crowding: People tend to stay indoors during colder weather, often in poorly ventilated spaces. This increases close contact and the likelihood of viral transmission.
Virus Stability: Studies show that certain viruses, like influenza, thrive in colder temperatures and low humidity, allowing them to remain stable and infectious for longer periods.
Weakened Immune Response: Limited exposure to sunlight in winter can reduce Vitamin D levels, which plays a crucial role in maintaining a strong immune system.
Common Infections During Seasonal Shifts
Influenza (Flu): Highly contagious and prevalent during colder months, flu can lead to severe complications like pneumonia if left untreated.
Common Cold: Caused by various viruses, including rhinoviruses, colds are frequent during temperature fluctuations.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): A common virus affecting both children and adults, often leading to mild cold-like symptoms but potentially severe respiratory distress in vulnerable individuals.
Asthma Exacerbations: Seasonal changes, combined with cold air, can trigger asthma attacks or worsen symptoms in individuals with pre-existing conditions.
How to Protect Yourself
While seasonal infections are inevitable to some extent, adopting the following strategies can reduce your risk and help maintain good respiratory health:
Get Vaccinated: The annual flu vaccine is the most effective way to protect against influenza. Immunisation is particularly important for high-risk groups, including the elderly, children, and individuals with chronic conditions.
Practice Good Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizers when soap is unavailable.
Wear Masks: Wearing masks in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces can help prevent respiratory infections, particularly in flu-prone seasons.
Boost Immunity: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Include immune-boosting nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and zinc. Stay physically active to improve overall immunity.
Ensure Proper Ventilation: Keep indoor spaces well-ventilated, even during colder months, to reduce the concentration of airborne viruses.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to keep mucous membranes moist and better equipped to fight off infections.
Seek Medical Attention for Symptoms: Early detection and treatment can prevent complications. If you experience persistent cough, fever, or breathing difficulties, consult a pulmonologist promptly.
Conclusion
Seasonal changes, especially colder months, pose challenges for respiratory health. By understanding the causes and adopting simple preventive measures like vaccinations, hygiene practices, and boosting immunity, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from infections. Stay proactive, stay healthy.
Seasonal changes, especially colder months, pose challenges for respiratory health. By understanding the causes and adopting simple preventive measures like vaccinations, hygiene practices, and boosting immunity, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from infections. Stay proactive, stay healthy. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
