During the fall, when the weather is changing, illness cases seem to skyrocket. Fall marks the start of cold and flu season, but have you ever wondered whether illness season is related to the change in the weather? Learn more about how the weather can impact illness cases. If you’re feeling under the weather visit AFC Urgent Care Stoneham for same-day illness care with no appointment needed. Simply walk in.
Can the Weather Make You Sick?
Growing up, your parents may have told you to wear a jacket outside or not to go outside with wet hair so that you don’t get sick. Contrary to popular belief, being cold and not wearing the correct layers for the weather cannot make you sick. In extreme weather, improper layers can leave you susceptible to conditions such as hypothermia and frostbite. But, not wearing a warm enough jacket while running your errands cannot cause you to get an illness such as a cold or the flu.
This is because illnesses are caused by an infection by either a bacteria or a virus. Being outside in the cold can cause mild illness symptoms temporarily. Cold air can irritate your lungs and sinuses which can cause symptoms such as congestion, a runny nose, watery eyes, and even a cough. However, these symptoms will resolve once you get inside.
Why Do People Get Sick More Often During the Winter?
We typically see an increase in illness cases during the colder winter months. Viruses and bacteria are present year-round, however, winter weather creates the perfect conditions for illnesses to spread. When it is cold outside, we tend to spend more time indoors, in close quarters with others. Spending time indoors with poor air circulation and close quarters means that viruses and bacteria can spread through the air and via surfaces like doorknobs and faucets very easily.
If you are struggling with illness symptoms after spending time outdoors when the weather is changing, you may think that you have come down with a cold. However, in many cases, the changes in temperature and humidity often can cause temporary illness symptoms due to the irritation within your sinuses and respiratory tract. Cold weather can weaken your immune system, which can make you more susceptible to getting sick during the winter months, however, exposure to the cold will not give you an illness.
Tips for Staying Healthy During Cold & Flu Season
During the colder winter months, it can seem like everyone is sick. Germs like viruses and bacteria are extremely contagious and can easily spread in public spaces such as offices, schools, and stores. If you are feeling sick, it is important to stay home so that you don’t spread your illness to others. It can be difficult to navigate the winter season without getting sick, however, here are some tips to help you stay healthy this winter:
- Sanitize surfaces regularly
- Avoid touching your face without washing your hands first
- Wash your hands regularly
- Avoid touching surfaces like door handles
- Avoid touching other people
- Keep personal space between yourself and others
Visit AFC Urgent Care Stoneham for Same-Day Illness Diagnosis & Treatment
If you’re experiencing illness symptoms, it could be the result of a sudden change of temperature that is irritating your respiratory tract. However, if your symptoms are long-lasting or worsen over time, you may have contracted an illness. AFC Urgent Care Stoneham offers same-day illness diagnosis and treatment for patients in Stoneham, MA, and the surrounding communities. We never require that you schedule an appointment in advance, simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you.
We maintain short wait times, making it convenient and easy to get medical care for your illness symptoms. Our medical providers are board-certified and trained to identify and treat a variety of different illnesses based on your symptoms. Using our on-site laboratory, your medical provider can perform diagnostic testing at the time of your visit for a more accurate diagnosis. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable care. To learn more, contact the clinic directly by calling (781) 279-4000.
