Complaints such as runny nose, alternating sneezes, a slight cough, itchy throat, weakness, and difficulty breathing are considered normal in winter. Because the weather gets colder and colder, diseases, especially upper respiratory tract infections, increase.
So much so that adults have upper respiratory tract infections on average 2 to 4 times a year, and children 5 to 8 times. The information that 30 percent of the population suffers from an upper respiratory tract infection at least once a year reveals how large a part of the society is affected by these diseases.
Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Kenan Çekem describes the infectious diseases that increase in frequency in the winter months as the weather gets colder: "Cold (cold), flu (influenza), pharyngitis (inflammation of the pharynx-nasal cavity), laryngitis (inflammation of the vocal cords-larynx), sinusitis, asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia (infection). pneumonia) and otitis (middle ear infection).”
Touching on the reasons why these diseases are more common in the winter months, Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Kenan Çekem: “Cold weather thickens the viruses' own protection layers, making them resistant and strong. In cold weather, our body mechanisms find it more difficult to warm and humidify our respiratory system such as the nose, airways and lungs. “This makes it easier for viruses to attach and makes it harder for them to be removed from the body,” he says. "In addition, in winter, functions such as body movements and metabolism slow down, and the diet turns towards sweeter, fatty, calorie-rich and unhealthy foods, which reduces body resistance and makes the immune system more vulnerable," he said.
Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Kenan Çekem said that we can be largely protected from these infectious diseases by taking personal precautions.
Table of Contents
WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY
Hands should be washed frequently, especially after nose-to-mouth contact, sneezing, using a tissue, after shaking hands, and before eating. Washing should be done by rubbing the hands with soap for at least 15-20 seconds and rinsing gently with water. From time to time, the nose and throat should be gently cleaned with water and gargled. Disinfectant should be used when hand washing is not possible.
USE A MASK
Masks should be worn to protect both ourselves and our environment in crowded environments, especially sick individuals. Masks are very important in preventing the spread of viruses.
REDUCE CONTACT
During periods of increased epidemics, travel, excursions and visits should not be made unless necessary, and social contacts such as shaking hands, kissing and hugging should be avoided. Unless necessary, one should stay away from crowds, especially sick individuals.
GET VACCINATED
Individuals over the age of 65, especially those with chronic diseases, and those who work or live in crowded environments should receive the flu vaccine at the beginning of each autumn. It is also recommended that people with chronic diseases such as asthma and bronchitis receive a pneumonia vaccine every 5 years.
EAT HEALTHY
In order to protect and support the immune system, sufficient amounts of fresh vegetables and fruits should be eaten and plenty of fluids should be consumed. It is also recommended to consume warm spice and herbal teas flavored with fresh lemon juice.
DRESS ACCORDING TO THE WEATHER CONDITIONS
Cotton-wool, breathable clothes suitable for the season should be worn. Care should be taken to prevent feet from getting cold. In order not to sweat and get cold, instead of a single thick piece of clothing, slightly thinner clothes that can be taken off and worn again when necessary should be preferred.
VENTIATE YOUR ROOM
Environments where people are crowded or where many people come and go, especially rooms where people work, study or rest, should be ventilated frequently. Commonly used tools, items and surfaces should be wiped and disinfected every day.
