WHY DO PEOPLE GET SICK WITH THE CHANGING SEASONS?
According to medical research, most older people suffer from cold 2-4 times a year and children 5-7 times. This roughly coincides with the change of seasons several times within a year . This is one reason for having a reciprocal relationship.
Every time we observe a change in the weather, the allergen count in the environment goes up to about 200 viruses.
These viruses are mostly responsible for coming in people due to the weather. The most common cold symptoms that can be seen are:
stuffy nose
sore throat
Sneeze
watery eyes
runny nose
high fever or muscle aches
Why does the change in weather make things worse?
People mostly feel the weather a little bit whenever the weather changes. The change in temperature provides a suitable condition for the growth of different groups of viruses which then spread infectious diseases.
The most common of the viruses is human rhinovirus (HRV), which causes up to 40 percent of all illness. They thrive in cool climates, such as spring and winter.
People with seasonal allergies in the summer have runny noses and itchy eyes when they are near pollen, mildew, or grass. Their immune system gets busy reacting to these allergens making the person vulnerable to viral attacks.
Influenza viruses cause the flu which mostly divides and spreads when the air is cold and dry, such as during the winter season.
But it is possible for you to dodge seasonal illness with a few minor precautions and lifestyle changes.
Take flu medicine:
There are about 100 known strains of rhinovirus which means that a vaccine cannot be made. Since viruses are constantly changing from one flu season to another, it is recommended that you get a flu shot for protection.
Take good care of cleanliness:
Rhinovirus survives outside the body for up to 3 hours, and can sometimes live up to 48 hours on surfaces such as door handles or switches. Thus it is important to wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face to protect yourself from infection and to keep the potential dangers away.
Exercise:
People who exercise regularly have a lower risk of getting a viral infection because it boosts your immune system.
Eat well and get proper rest:
Eating a well-balanced diet , getting plenty of sleep and keeping stress under control can help you deal with seasonal illness in a better way.
