Seasonal respiratory viral infections have been extensively recognized for thousands of years since annual outbreaks of the common cold and influenza sickness attacks, like clockwork in India and other temperate countries.
The two key contributing causes are changes in environmental elements and human activity. the. Temperature and humidity have been shown in studies to affect respiratory virus stability and transmission rates
Take Care of Your Respiratory Health in Winter
Winter has arrived in India. In addition to the foggy mornings and chilly evenings, winter heralds the commencement of a variety of festivities. However, for some people, the season also brings dozens of new health issues, most notably respiratory ailments. Aside from the colder environment causing health problems, disease transmission can also speed during the winter due to poor ventilation in congested settings.
People who have pre-existing respiratory diseases, such as asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD), may see their symptoms worsen as the chilly temperatures make it difficult to breathe comfortably.
Variables that contribute to winter breathing issues include:
- Allergies to certain seasons
- Particles of smoke and dust
- Pollution
- Smog
Why is Winter Associated with Respiratory Disorders?
In winters, there is an alarming rise in pollution levels which, along with the dip in temperature, can lead to many health issues, including ailments of the respiratory system. It becomes important, therefore, to exercise caution.
During the winter, the air is cold and dry. When we inhale dry air, our airways have a thin film of fluid that evaporates faster than usual. In some circumstances, the fluid evaporates faster than it can be refilled. As a result, the throat becomes dry, irritated, and swollen, worsening the symptoms of COPD and asthma.
The protective covering of the throat, mucus, increases in production throughout the winter. Mucus produced in cold temperatures is thicker and stickier than normal, causing obstructions in the respiratory system and increasing your chances of getting cold or other diseases.
Which respiratory disorders are more common in the winter?
Though respiratory infections can occur at any time of year, some are more common in the winter.
The common cold: More than two hundred distinct types of viruses can cause this highly contagious illness, which is most common in the winter.
Asthma
Asthma is frequently triggered by cold air, which can result in flare-ups. Furthermore, flu, colds, and other diseases are more common throughout the winter. These illnesses are known to worsen asthma symptoms in certain people.
Influenza
Influenza, sometimes known as the flu, is a viral disease that resembles a common cold but is more severe. A flu patient may also have bodily aches, congestion, lethargy, and chest pain.
Bronchitis:
Bronchitis causes swelling and inflammation in the airway and lungs. It is frequently preceded by a regular cold or the flu. A persistent cough is the most prevalent sign of bronchitis.
Pneumonia:
Pneumonia is more frequent in the winter and causes the little air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs to fill with fluid.
Whooping cough
Whooping cough (also known as pertussis) is a highly contagious disease that primarily affects young children. It manifests itself as uncontrollable furious coughing.
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus):
RSV is most common in infants and children, and it can cause persistent bronchitis and pneumonia. It usually manifests as significant chest pain and is more common during the winter months.
Sinusitis is an infection of the upper respiratory tract that can manifest as congestion, headache, and cough. Sinusitis is most commonly observed in enclosed environments with inadequate ventilation.
Tips for Coping with Cold Weather - Your Guide To Better Lungs Health
There are several things you can do to help deal with the cold and dry air that winter brings. It is recommended that those with respiratory difficulties take special precautions during these months to avoid symptoms.
Maintain a comfortable body temperature by layering warm clothing comfortably. Use a scarf to cover your nose and mouth, and an air mask to protect your airways and lungs from the damaging effects of temperature changes.
- Keep your hands sanitized and germ-free. Avoid using dirty hands to contact your mouth, nose, or eyes.
- Avoid morning jogs if the air quality in your area is poor, as harmful pollutants are at their height at this time. Instead, you might engage in indoor aerobic exercises.
Include some breathing exercises to help strengthen your lungs.
- Keep dust, mould, and allergies out of your home. Regularly clean your linens, carpets, rugs, and sofas.
Don’t smoke, and stay away from crowded locations.
Avoid outside activities that could aggravate your respiratory difficulties. People often inhale via their mouth as their breathing and pulse rate increase during exercise, causing discomfort and swelling.
Develop the habit of breathing in through your nose, rather than your mouth. The blood veins in your nose humidify the air before it reaches your lungs. Increased mouth inhalation directs chilly and dry air to your lungs.
Provide adequate ventilation in your home; consider using an air purifier or a humidifier.
Keep hydrated. Take steam as directed by your doctor, but do not experiment with unproven home therapies that may aggravate the illness.
Eat a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. Citrus fruits, turmeric, and ginger can all aid in the development of immunity.
Avoid preservatives, additives, and artificial flavors in processed, junk, fried, fatty, and canned foods. They may irritate the throat.
Take flu and pneumonia vaccinations as directed by your doctor. Take medications as directed, have your inhaler ready, and take it at least thirty minutes before going outside in the cold.
People with pre-existing lung diseases or those over the age of 65 should see their doctor on a regular basis to ensure their prescriptions are up to date.
Maintain Regular Health Check-Ups
Routine check-ups assist in the early detection of potential health problems, and early diagnosis provides the best chance of overcoming the condition without implications.
At Galaxy, our state-of-the-art clinical laboratories can assist in discovering a wide range of illnesses that can be cured fully or at least slowed down with the use of modern diagnostics and technology.
Respiratory diseases can be prevented by taking all the essential precautions throughout the winter months.
As is the case with any medical issue, you can consult Galaxy’s experienced team of physicians, if you have any questions about your respiratory health. Seek medical help whenever necessary, to achieve significant medical results.