Christmas is here, and it is the time of joy, celebration, and togetherness, but as the winter season sets in, the drop in temperature can lead to various health issues due to factors such as reduced sunlight and increased indoor time. These factors can weaken the body’s immune system, making it more vulnerable to congestion, cough, flu, pneumonia, and respiratory problems.
Winter can increase your chances of falling ill. Boosting your immune system becomes crucial during the winter to fight various health issues. You can even get vaccinated for flu and pneumonia for the betterment of your health. “People who are at a higher risk of experiencing these conditions, such as those with chronic conditions, children, and older adults, should get vaccinated immediately. The risk of respiratory issues like coughs and bronchitis can worsen during the winter due to various factors such as cold air and temperature,” says Dr. Manjusha Agarwal, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Gleneagles Hospital Parel, Mumbai.
Tips to boost immunity and stay healthy in winter
Ensure you dress properly according to the weather to keep you warm and cosy. Individuals are advised to eat foods that are known to boost their immunity, such as ginger, turmeric, or garlic. According to Dr. Anuja Thomas, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar, Mumbai, “Women need to be cautious during the winter, as it can heighten the risk of various health issues such as UTIs (urinary tract infections). This can be mostly caused by not drinking enough water and lower immunity.”
Dealing with this particular issue can be frustrating as it can cause physical discomfort. “Over time, women can experience symptoms like burning sensations while peeing, pain near the pelvic area, rashes, back pain, and a frequent urge to urinate. Period cramps can also worsen during the winter, highlighting the importance of following safety measures,” adds Dr. Thomas.
Hence they are advised to take utmost care of their health by maintaining proper hygiene, staying warm, eating healthy meals, and wearing breathable clothes.
Stay hydrated: Lifestyle modifications like staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, exercising regularly, and managing your stress levels can be helpful.
Do not ignore symptoms: If you start to experience any type of symptoms, then try to ignore them or cure them with home remedies. Consider consulting a doctor to ensure that these minor health issues do not turn into serious conditions that can be life-threatening.
Regular health check-ups are important: Regular screenings can help gain valuable insight into your overall health while detecting various health issues early on. Along with this, children are equally vulnerable to health issues like constant cough and cold during the winter.
Follow hygiene: Encourage the kids to wash their hands frequently and avoid eating street foods. These proactive measures can help boost the immune systems of both women and children during the colder season.
Do not hesitate to visit the doctor when necessary.
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