Winter has arrived, and it’s a busy time with exciting reunions, parties, picnics and family dinners. However, as we prepare for glamorous winters, it is also important not to forget about unpleasant winter illnesses such as low temperatures, humid air and unsanitary conditions which can lead to many health problems. By knowing how to identify common winter illnesses, their symptoms and precautions, it is easier to prevent or treat them effectively. The flu, colds, sore throats and other respiratory illnesses are common winter illnesses. This blog describes the most common winter illnesses, their symptoms and how to prevent them.
What are the causes of illnesses in winter?
More infectious diseases occur in winter than in summer, as viruses live longer in colder temperatures and humidity. These environmental conditions are suitable for microbes so that they can survive and spread to humans, so most illnesses are caused in winter.
What diseases are common in winter?
The following diseases are common in winter:
gastroenteritis and norovirus
Gastroenteritis and norovirus are diseases of the stomach that cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Gastroenteritis is very contagious and caused by bacteria or viruses. Norovirus is mainly transmitted by contaminated food or by humans. The time of recovery is 2 days. There are no specific medicines to treat norovirus, but drinking plenty of water can alleviate this problem. Avoiding spicy and contaminated foods can prevent gastroenteritis.
Cold
The flu is at its highest level during the winter season. It is a respiratory disease characterized by a stuffy nose, sore throat and cough. The flu only takes a day to develop and usually lasts 7-10 days. There are no specific medications to treat the flu, but nasal sprays and over-the-counter medications can relieve symptoms.
bronchitis
It is characterized by bronchitis. The most common symptom of bronchitis is a cough, which can cause mucus to build up after a few days. This is mainly due to the constant environmental changes in winter and irritants such as dust, flue gases, smog, etc. The recovery time for bronchitis is 7-10 days. Plus, non-prescription drugs and cough medications help people feel better within a week.
The flu
Due to its infectious nature, it can be spread from person to person by coughing, sneezing, or even talking. The most common flu symptoms are fever, cough, chest congestion, chills, and fatigue. The flu recovery time is 5-7 days. The main treatment for the flu is a flu shot, which can be given before the winter season begins or when you have a cold.
pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infectious lung disease that can be caused by bacteria or viruses in winter. This winter illness can be mild to severe depending on age, general health and the nature of the microbe. The most common symptoms of pneumonia are cough, fever, fatigue, chest pain, sweating, and shortness of breath. It is life threatening for children and those over 65. The recovery time for pneumonia is 1 to 2 weeks, but fatigue can last a month or more. Antibiotics treat bacterial pneumonia, and non-prescription drugs treat viral pneumonia.
How to prevent winter diseases?
No one wants to be sick, tired and shabby in the winter. However, you cannot avoid getting sick; you can only take proper preventative measures to stay away from infections. The following preventive actions can help you prevent winter illnesses:
- Wash your hands well
- Keep your dirty fingers away from your face
- Make sure everyone has the flu shot
- Clean common surfaces often
- Eat a balanced meal
- Stay active
- Find ways to relax
Weather conditions favorable to viruses and bacteria cause a number of common winter illnesses. The most common winter illnesses are gastroenteritis and norovirus, influenza, influenza, bronchitis and pneumonia. The recovery time for each winter illness varies from one to another. Common symptoms of all winter illnesses include cough, fever, fatigue, chest congestion, chills, and a stuffy nose. There are no special drugs for the prevention of these winter diseases. In winter, however, it is possible to reduce the risk of getting sick by taking certain preventive measures.
