Seven illnesses that could hit during winter - and how to beat them

05 February 2024 , 10:32

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Health conditions can be made worse by a few days of cold weather (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

There are seven illnesses that could hit during winter - and health experts say this is how to beat them

Health conditions can arise from dip in temperatures sparking an increase in hospital admissions in a host of ailments from flu and asthma to even heart failure and strokes. The number of conditions which become more prominent in winter months becomes more common, but steps can be taken to guard against them, according to Dr Unnati Desai, national GP lead at Nuffield Health.

1. ASTHMA

Infections or viruses caused by colds, flu and Covid can make Asthma worse with cold and dry air adding to the creation if mucus in the lungs. It can in turn make the airways tighter which can exacerbate breathing problems. An estimated 5.4million Brits with asthma are prone to secondary infections a steroid inhaler is used.

An estimated 5.4million Brits with asthma prone to secondary infections if a steroid inhaler is used (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

It lowers immunity to to keep inflammation at bay but it also puts asthma sufferers at risk of infections. Keeping you home environment humid helps and this can be done using a a bowl of water which can be put on top of radiators and stops the air drying out. Medication can also be stepped up and inhalers used properly in addition to taking all vaccines as required.

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2. MEASLES

This condition has seen arise in winter months and has been severe in the UK this year, Hospital chiefs in Birmingham said they had been swamped with cases, and dealt with the highest number of children in decades with 50 cases last month. It is hugely contagious and spreads easily with many cases in schools an nurseries.

Safe protection against measles can be gained by the MMR vaccine, but immunisations must be kept up to date. Breakthrough infections can happen but are less severe. Parents who were not vaccinated as a child can have an MMR jab as an adult.

3. COLD SORES

Herpes simplex virus, which is the cause of cold sores, remains in your body and occasionally flares up causing cold sores in one in five of us. When immunity is lower in winter months the condition is more common The easiest way to protect yourself is by boosting your immune system by taking multivitamin with iron, selenium, vitamins C and D and zinc

Treatment should begin in the first three days. Other over-the-counter treatments, such as Zovirax are available or from your GP in tablet form.

4. PSORIASIS

Two in every 100 people are affected by psoriasis in Britain. Many sufferers are affected by cold weather and symptoms are exacerbated by central heating. It happens when skin loses its moisture barrier and can cause inflammation with it and eczema common in dry environments. People suffering from psoriasis should not wash excessively as dry skin will be made worse. Health experts say emollients and creams work best when they have a high grease content..

5. COUGHS AND COLDS

As we probably know only too well, coughs and colds are extremely common in winter months. Almost 95% of cases are caused by viruses and antibiotics will not help. Secondary infections can result in those with with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by steroid inhaler use. Sufferers are advised to get some rest, drink plenty water and and eat healthily. A decongestant can reduce sinus discomfort by using a steam inhalation. This should help reduces mucus which can cause an infection in the lungs.

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6. HEART ATTACKS

Research shows heart attacks and strokes are more likely during a cold period which lasts more than four days. The risk of a heart attack is greater when the mercury falls below 12C. Blood vessels being constricted by the cold can increase blood pressure and heart rate causing an increase in heart attacks.

To reduce the risk of a heart attack your home should be kept at a minimum temperature of 18C. They are also advised to wear thin clothing plus gloves, hat and scarf when outside.

Keep active with gentle exercise indoors and have warm drinks. Limit your caffeine and alcohol intake.

7. CONJUNCTIVITIS

This is known as 'pink eye' and usually caused by a virus. It can be passed others indoors and those we are in closer contact with. Dry eyes can be caused by cold air and drinking less fluid during winter months which can be a contributing factor. Hands should be washed regularly and touching eyes avoided especially f you have a cold or flu. Sufferers should keep well-hydrated and speak to a pharmacist about products to help manage dry eyes.

Graeme Murray