As the holiday season approaches, so does the onset of winter illnesses, marking the advent of an endless list of ailments triggered by the colder months. In this post, we’ve compiled a list of the most common winter illnesses. exploring why they are widespread during the winter and offering insights into their treatment.
Common Cold
Why is it common in winter?
Our virus fighting proteins are less active when temperatures drop, meaning they are less effective at protecting the body from viruses that cause colds. If the virus isn’t being fought off in the body, it can keep replicating and causing you to become more and more sick.
How to treat?
- Staying hydrated – drink plenty of fluids
- Resting
- Pain relievers – paracetamol, ibuprofen etc.
- Decongestants
Norovirus
Why is it common in winter?
Norovirus, or the ‘winter vomiting bug,’ thrives in colder seasons, spreading easily in chilly temperatures. Highly contagious, it persists on surfaces, causing uncomfortable symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.
How to treat?
- Staying hydrated – drink plenty of fluids to avoid hydration
- Rest – stay at home until symptoms have minimised
- Anti-diarrhoea medications
Bronchitis
Why is it common in winter?
Cold winter air can induce bronchitis, triggered by viruses like the flu and common cold, or certain bacteria. Symptoms include a dry cough evolving into a mucus-producing one, along with a sore throat and wheeziness.
How to treat?
- Rest – stay at home and avoid contact with others until you feel well enough
- Pain relievers – paracetamol, ibuprofen etc.
- Stay hydrated – drink plenty of fluids, try hot drinks to alleviate sore throat
Sinusitis
Why is it common in winter?
Sinusitis is caused by dry air and dries out nasal passages, mucus linings which leads to thicker mucus, congestion, and infection.
How to treat?
- Pain relievers – paracetamol, ibuprofen etc.
- Stay hydrated – drink plenty of fluids
- Decongestant nasal sprays/drops – available at pharmacies
- Salt water nasal spray/solutions – available at pharmacies
Strep A
Why is it common in winter?
How to treat?
- Antibiotics – prevents further spreading & developing serious complications
Coronavirus
Why is it common in winter?
How to treat?
- Rest
- Stay hydrated – avoid dehydration
- Pain relievers – paracetamol, ibuprofen etc.
Pneumonia
Why is it common in winter?
How to treat?
- Antibiotics – most people recover in 2 to 4 weeks
- May be hospitalised if worsens
Constipation
Why is it common in winter?
How to treat?
- Make changes to diet – balanced, increase fibre
- Increase physical activity
- Laxatives – speak to a pharmacist or healthcare professional for advice
Conjunctivitis
Why is it common in winter?
How to treat?
- Eyedrops – speak to a pharmacist
- Apply cold flannel on eyes
- Antibiotics – if caused by bacteria
Ear Infections
Why is it common in winter?
How to treat?
- Apply warm/cold flannel on ear
- Pain relievers – paracetamol, ibuprofen etc.
- Ear drops – available at the pharmacy
- Antibiotics
If you are prone to frequent ear infections, we recommend a hearing screening. At the Medical Hub we provide an ear hearing screening that can help determine any issues you may be experiencing and provide you with further steps.
Book your consultation today.
Cold sores
Why is it common in winter?
How to treat?
- Use lip balm that contains SPF
- Avoid kissing others
- Stay hydrated
- Antiviral creams from the pharmacy
The Flu
Why is it common in winter?
Cold weather and indoor heating contribute to dry air, creating an ideal environment for the flu virus to spread. This also dries out nasal passages, making it challenging to fend off various viruses.
How to treat?
- Rest –ease aching bodies by sleeping and resting
- Stay hydrated – drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration
- Stay warm
- Pain relievers – paracetamol, ibuprofen etc.
