Lifestyle Desk: The month of November indicates change in weather. During this time, mild cold is felt in the morning and evening, while the afternoon remains sunny and warm. This difference in temperature between day and night becomes a cause of trouble for many people. This is the reason why problems like cough, cold, sore throat, sneezing and running nose start increasing in this season. The risk of these problems may be relatively higher in children and the elderly.
Many times people consider change in weather to be the cause of cold, but many reasons like virus, allergy and air pollution are also responsible for it. Especially people who already have asthma or respiratory problems need to be more cautious in this season. Let us know why the problem of cough and cold increases and what things should be kept in mind to avoid it.
temperature fluctuations
From the month of November the morning and evening temperatures decrease, while the day remains hot. In such a situation, the body has to adapt itself to the changing temperature. Frequent movement between cold and hot environments can increase nose and throat sensitivity in some people. However, cold alone does not cause viral infection; contact with the virus is also necessary for this.
increase in viral infection
The viruses that cause cold and cough remain active during changing weather. Rhinovirus and influenza virus are prominent among them. When an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks, the virus can spread around him. Apart from this, infection can also occur by touching eyes, nose or mouth without washing hands after touching an infected surface.
air pollution and dust particles
At that time, pollution levels start increasing in many cities. Dust, smoke and microscopic particles present in the air can reach the body through breath and cause irritation in the nose and throat. This can cause persistent cough, sneezing and sore throat. This situation can cause more problems for asthma patients.
allergy problem
As the weather changes, exposure to dust, pollen and mold particles in the air can increase allergies in some people. Such people may have problems like frequent sneezing, itching in the nose, watery eyes and sore throat. Symptoms of allergy and viral cold sometimes appear similar, so if the problem persists for a long time, it is important to consult a doctor.
Negligence in morning and evening cold
Many people, seeing the heat during the day, go out in light clothes even in the morning and evening. This may make them feel cold and uncomfortable. Therefore, while going out in the morning and evening, wear clothes according to the weather. Especially take care to protect children and the elderly from cold air.
Adopt these measures to avoid cough and cold
Maintain cleanliness of hands – wash hands with soap after coming home from outside and before eating food. This reduces the risk of spreading infection.
Drink enough water – do not let there be dehydration in the body. Taking enough fluids keeps the throat hydrated and the body functioning normally.
Wear clothes according to the weather – wear warm clothes when it gets cold in the morning and evening. Send children outside after dressing them according to the weather.
Avoid pollution – Avoid going out unnecessarily when the air quality is bad. Use a good quality mask when needed.
Eat a balanced diet – include seasonal fruits, green vegetables, pulses and protein-rich items in your diet. This provides essential nutrients to the body.
Get enough sleep-Try to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep daily. Good sleep helps in maintaining normal immunity of the body.
Be careful with infected people – if anyone nearby has cough or cold, avoid going too close to them. The mouth should be covered while coughing and sneezing.
Pay attention to vaccination-Consider getting the flu vaccine as per your doctor's advice. This can be especially important for the elderly, small children and people suffering from chronic diseases.
Who need to be more careful?
People suffering from asthma, COPD and other chronic respiratory diseases should take special care during the change in weather. Apart from this, the risk of infection may be higher in small children, elderly and people with weak immunity. Such people should continue taking their regular medicines as per the doctor's advice.
When is it necessary to go to the doctor?
Common cold can be cured in a few days, but it is not right to consider cough as minor every time. If high fever persists, difficulty in breathing, chest pain, wheezing is heard or cough continues to increase, contact a doctor. Treatment should not be delayed if symptoms are severe in young children and the elderly.