There’s a common belief that weather changes can increase your risk of catching a cold. After all, you hear of more people getting sick during the winter, and spring, summer, and fall bring about their crop of sniffling, sneezing, runny noses, and sinus pain. However, is this the case? Can the weather make you sick, or does it have more to do with your environment and how you live your life?
It’s true that the colder weather of winter, or even the quick jump from warm to cool temperatures, can bring about a sudden outbreak of runny noses and temple-throbbing headaches. While these symptoms are uncomfortable, it is essential to remember that they are not permanent. You can treat these uncomfortable symptoms with over-the-counter medicine and natural supplements. The main reason that your chances of catching a cold or flu may increase during this time is due to the drop in humidity levels. Low humidity in winter can dry out your eyes, lungs, and mucous membranes and weaken your immune system. This leaves you susceptible to any bacteria or viruses that come your way and may cause you to get sick.
Viruses, such as the ones that cause colds and flu, thrive in the cooler winter air and are spread when people breathe the same dry, irritated air. It is also more accessible for people to meet up in close spaces like public transportation, shopping malls, and other crowded areas during winter, where they are more likely to inhale the germs of others who have colds or the flu.
Many experts agree that the relationship between weather change and the cold virus must be well-established. Instead, it may have more to do with seasonal patterns of colds and flu or your lifestyle and habits. For example, you can reduce your chances of catching a cold by regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops. Staying hydrated and getting enough vitamin D is also essential, as this can help strengthen your immune system.
In addition, stress can wreak havoc on your immune system, and the rapid shifts between warm and cold weather can increase your symptoms of chronic conditions such as arthritis, asthma, or sleep apnea.
Regardless of the season, it is still recommended to protect yourself from germs and toxins by washing your hands frequently. If you feel yourself slipping into a flare-up of a condition such as sinus problems or asthma, talk to your doctor to discuss your treatment options. This can include over-the-counter medication and natural supplements to relieve your symptoms so you can continue living your best life.