In winter respiratory tract infections are on the rise. The cold climate & travel contribute to an increase in respiratory infections. Children, youth, and aged, all are susceptible to respiratory tract infections. Cough, cold, and fever are the most common symptoms and are mostly called common cold /flu. People with strong immunity may have mild symptoms and those with weakened immunity may end up having severe symptoms – severe sinusitis, Pneumonia, ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome) and so on.
Why are respiratory illnesses common in a cold climate?
The most common viral infections in winter are influenza, rhinovirus, adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, etc. These are called cold viruses as they are very active during cold climates making the possibility of the spread of infection higher during winter, and people end up suffering from the common cold / flu more frequently.
Once an individual suffers from common flu, he becomes susceptible to secondary bacterial infection as these influenza attacks may worsen one’s immunity. This is how common flu takes a serious course and ends up having severe infection and hospitalization.
Symptoms of Common Flu:
Sore throat, fever, generalized body ache, headache, sneezing, and cold are some of the symptoms of common flu.
Symptoms of Respiratory illness:
Breathlessness, wheezing, severe cough, and difficulty in breathing are severe symptoms of respiratory illness and may require emergency care.
Who are susceptible?
The elderly population, diabetics, and people already suffering from respiratory ailments, and cardiac aliments are more susceptible to severe respiratory tract infections, thus are advised to take doctor’s advise at the earliest. Also, these individuals should learn the importance of various vaccinations available and should minimum plan flu shots annually.
What should I do in winter?
- Consume a Freshly prepared, nutritious, balanced diet.
- Increased intake of legumes, green leafy vegetables, colorful fruits and berries.
- Consuming Vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, broccoli, kiwi, Bells peppers, gooseberries etc plays an important role in building immunity.
- Good quality sleep too is essential for one’s immunity
- Regular exercise and exposure to sunlight (for Vit D) are important.
- If one is a resident of metro cities, consider using air filters at home, keeping windows closed when air pollution index (API) alerts are high, and staying indoors if API is high.
- Last but not least- Wear MASK if in crowded areas or health care facilities – this is a simple but best measure to prevent infection.
Dr Jyoti Hattiholi, Pulmonologist, KLES Dr. Prabahakar Kore Hospital & MRC
