10 Common Winter Illness

Winter is one such season when plenty of pesky germs thrive and plague people. The cold and flu viruses often survive in cold weather when people tend to spend more time indoors. Some health issues, such as sore throat, asthma and cold sores, are often triggered and aggravated by cold weather. 

Let us take a look at 10 common winter health issues:

1) Cold

Cold is preventable simply by improving your personal hygiene. You can destroy cold-causing germs by simply washing your hands regularly. These germs invade the body by touching common objects such as light switches or door handles. It is better to use disposable tissues instead of handkerchief in order to prevent cold. Check with your GP for cold medicines.

2) Flu

Flu is one of the most common illnesses in winter. People with diabetes, kidney diseases and other chronic health issues are at the risk of catching flu easily in cold weather. The best way to prevent flu is vaccination. You can check with your GP to know more how to stay away from getting flu.

3) Cold Sores

Cold sores are small fever blisters that are seen around the lips or mouth. Cold sores are caused by Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), which strives in the cold climate. Usually, cold sores are self-limiting. Your doctor may prescribe skin ointment or skin creams that helps treat these fever blisters.

4) Cold Hands

A condition called Raynaud’s Phenomenon is very common in winter. It is a condition in which your finger and toes become painful with change in colour. Your fingers may go white, blue and then red, followed by numbness. This is a sign of poor blood circulation. To overcome such condition, you can wear gloves, socks and shoes. More importantly, avoid smoking.

    

5) Sore Throat

Sore throat is quite common in winter, which is often caused by viral infections. Extreme cold and fluctuations in temperature can give rise to sore throat. One of the quick and easy ways to relieve sore throat is warm water gargling. Although it will not cure the condition, but its anti-inflammatory effect can soothe the throat.

6) Asthma

Cold weather is one of the triggering factors of asthma symptoms such as cough, wheezing and breathlessness. Hence, experts advise asthmatic subjects to be more careful in winter. The best way to prevent asthma attack during winter is to stay indoors. Wear a protective mask if you are ought to go outdoors. Keep a rescue inhaler always with you.

7) Norovirus

Norovirus is also called winter bug. It is an infectious stomach bug that causes profuse diarrhoea and vomiting. It is an unpleasant illness, which usually subside within a couple of days. First and foremost, you should drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. See your GP if the symptoms persist for more than two days.

8) Joint Pain & Stiffness

People with arthritis often experience multiple joint pains and stiffness, and they aggravate during winter. There is no strong evidence that weather changes cause joint problems. Regular physiotherapy and warm application can help ease painful joint with stiffness.

9) Dry Skin

Winter is the most common risk factor of dry skin. When atmospheric humidity is relatively low, you are more likely to have dry skin. Regular moisturising is essential to prevent dryness. The best time to use moisturiser is after bath and before going to bed.

10) Heart Attack

People with history of heart disease are prone to heart attack in winter. That’s because cold weather increases blood pressure, putting much strain on heart to pump blood. Wrap up yourself when you go outdoors, wear hat and gloves. In short, cover yourself completely.