A common issue brought on by seasonal changes is a persistent cough, sore throat, or runny nose. Many individuals observe that as the weather changes, particularly from summer to winter or from winter to spring, colds become more frequent. However, why does this occur? Are there other things at play, or is the cold weather the primary cause? Let’s examine the science as well as the reasons why the increased incidence of colds with weather changes.
The Common Cold: What It Really Is
Rhinoviruses and coronaviruses are the most frequent viruses that produce the “common cold.” By touching infected surfaces, direct contact, or airborne droplets, these viruses can move from one person to another. Simply put, symptoms such as fatigue, sneezing, congestion, and sore throat are the body’s immunological reaction to these viral invaders.
It’s interesting to note that while the weather does not produce viruses, it does produce circumstances that facilitate their transmission and make it more difficult for human bodies to combat them.
How Weather Changes Affect Our Bodies?
Weakened Immune Response
The immune system in our bodies performs less effectively as the temperature drops. According to studies, cold air may lessen the nose’s defense mechanism. The nasal passages natural ability to capture and eliminate viruses is slowed down in colder climates. This makes it easier for viruses to live and spread.
Nasal Health and Cold Air
Inhaling drier, colder air might irritate the nasal tube lining. It is simpler for viruses to infect people because of this discomfort. The cold also tightens the blood vessels in the nose, which reduces the number of immune cells that enter the nasal cavity.
Unexpected Changes in Temperature
Our body must swiftly adapt when the weather abruptly changes, such as from warm afternoons to cold nights. This abrupt shift may temporarily impair our immune system, making us more susceptible to viral infections.
Common Cold vs. Seasonal Allergies
Allergies are another cause of illness during seasonal shifts. Like a cold, symptoms including sneezing, congestion, and a runny nose can be brought on by pollen in the spring or mold in the autumn. Viruses, however, do not cause allergies. Colds may appear more frequently since the allergy season coincides with temperature changes.
Tips to Prevent Colds During Weather Changes
While preventing colds entirely may not be possible, you can lower your risk by forming a few simple habits:
Boost Your Immunity
To help your body heal and fend against infections, get adequate sleep.
Maintain an active lifestyle to strengthen your immune system and circulation.
Stay Hydrated
By keeping your nasal passages moist, drinking sufficient water prevents the spread of viruses. In colder months, herbal soups and teas are also excellent choices.
Use a Humidifier
By keeping your nasal passages from drying up, adding moisture to indoor air can lower your risk of discomfort and illness.
Maintain Good Hygiene
Always wash your hands with soap and water.
Refrain from touching your face, particularly your lips and nose.
Dress Appropriately
Wearing layers of clothing will protect you from abrupt temperature changes. By keeping your body warm, you may avoid exposing your immune system to cold stress.
Get Enough Vitamin D or Sunlight
If there is little sunshine, see a doctor before consuming vitamin D-rich foods such as fatty fish, fortified dairy products, or supplements.
It is never the changing weather that causes colds; viruses are the true culprit. However, the ideal environment for these viruses to proliferate and for our systems to become more susceptible is created by seasonal changes. When the weather changes, colds are more common due to cold air, dry conditions, close contact indoors, and compromised immune systems.
Prevention actions, such as boosting immunity, drinking enough water, and maintaining your body health, can reduce the likelihood of becoming ill. Although the weather is beyond our control, we can have some influence over how we safeguard ourselves throughout seasonal changes.
