As the cold weather sets in, we wrap ourselves in blankets and warm clothes. Equally important is to be aware of certain health conditions. These diseases commonly occur or exacerbate during the winter season. The whole family could be affected, causing serious disruption in our daily lives.
Winter disease has to start with the common cold. This is the peak time to catch the viruses leading to these respiratory conditions. Almost daily, we can see people sneezing, coughing or complaining of soreness in the throat. A little fever and headache are also common.
This is quite contagious and can spread to the whole family if one has the symptoms. The good thing is it is generally a mild problem and goes away within a few days. Adequate rest and fluids are advised to speed up the recovery process. Decongestants and paracetamol could be used to manage the symptoms.
Winter is also known as the flu season. Generally, it starts with the advent of fall and stretches into the early part of the next year. Young children and elderly people are highly susceptible to flu. This results from viral infection (influenza) of the throat, nose and lungs.
Symptoms are similar to the common cold, but they are more intense. The fever may be high-grade and associated with chills and muscle aches. Like the common cold, it is infectious and transmits between persons rapidly through the air. This is also self-limiting, and recovery usually occurs within a week.
However, certain groups are at a high risk of serious complications, i.e. bronchitis and pneumonia. These groups include under five kids and elderly over 65 years, expecting women and patients with a weak immune system.
Though not as common as the flu or common cold, pneumonia is equally, if not more, troublesome. It is generally characterised by fever, cough, chest pain, breathlessness, and weakness. In children below 02 years and adults over 65 years, pneumonia could be life-threatening.
Sinusitis, or inflammation of the sinuses, is another disease that may be exacerbated during winter. The inflammation could stem from allergies or colds, among other things. Patients complain of pain around the sinuses, headache and sometimes fever. Using a humidifier in the house and maintaining personal hygiene are crucial to reduce the risk.
Winter may also precipitate more cases of stomach infection caused by norovirus. Patients present with diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting. The virus usually spreads through food. Recovery happens within days.
Cold temperatures during winter may hamper blood flow to our body's extremities. This can lead to joint pain in those areas. So, people with arthritis may experience symptom aggravation during winter. An increased incidence of cardiovascular diseases has also been observed during winter.
Mental health is critical for our wellbeing. Winter affects that, too. The cold season with shorter daylight may trigger depression or mood changes, known as seasonal affective disorder. Common features include an increase in appetite, problems with concentration, self-isolation and, in extreme cases, suicidal thinking.
Winter brings a lot of diseases to our doorstep. But with proper precautions, we can keep ourselves healthy and free of illness. Regular hand washing, completing all the necessary vaccinations, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and relaxation techniques are all important to keep us safe during this season.
imtiazdmc@gmail.com