Why are Respiratory Infections More Common in the Winter?
Some suggest that respiratory infections are associated with exposure to low environmental temperatures. They believe that viruses tend to survive better in drier, colder climates. Other theories are:
Lack of sunlight. Shorter days during the winter can lead to a lack of sunlight, thus causing lower levels of vitamin D and melatonin. Both vitamin D and melatonin require a fair amount for their generation. Lack of these can compromise our immune systems which causes a decrease in our ability to be able to fight off viruses.
People tend to spend more time indoors with windows and doors sealed shut. More time indoors makes us more susceptible to contact viruses because we may be breathing the same air as someone who already has the flu.
What is a Respiratory Infection?
A respiratory infection or RTI, is usually caused by viruses, but it can also be caused by bacteria. Respiratory infections are one of the most common reasons people seek help from their healthcare provider. Respiratory infections are infections of the airways, throat, sinuses or lungs.
Types of Respiratory Infections
Upper Respiratory Infections affect the sinuses, nose, and throat.
Sinusitis. This is an infection of the sinuses
Laryngitis. An infection of the voice box.
Tonsillitis. An infection of the tissues in the back of the throat and tonsils
Common cold or flu.
Symptoms of Upper Respiratory Infections:
Cough
Sore throat
Stuffy or runny nose
Muscle aches
Sneezing
Headaches
Lower Respiratory Infections affect the lungs and airways through:
Bronchiolitis. This is an infection of the small airways that mostly affect babies and children under 2 years of age.
Tuberculosis. A persistent bacterial infection of the lungs
Flu. The flu can affect both the upper and lower respiratory tract
Pneumonia. An infection of the lungs
Bronchitis. An infection of the airways.
Symptoms of lower respiratory infections:
Severe cough
Breathlessness and wheezing
Increased rate of breathing
Tightening in the chest
How do Respiratory Infections Spread?
Respiratory Infections can spread in several ways. For example: If a cold is present, tiny droplets of fluid containing viruses become present in the air whenever you sneeze or cough. If these droplets of fluids are breathed in by someone else, they can become infected as well.
Indirect contact can also be another way in which viruses spread. If you have a cold and you touch your eyes or nose, then touch a surface or object, the virus can be passed on if another person touches that same surface or object.
Ways to reduce your chances of respiratory infections:
Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough.
Wash your hands frequently, especially before preparing and or eating food, after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing into your hand.
Avoid sharing cups, cutlery, or glasses when drinking or eating
Keep hands away from nose, eyes and mouth
Clean household objects and surfaces frequently
Bacteria and viruses that cause respiratory tract infections can spread from person to person when someone with the virus sneezes or coughs. They release tiny droplets into the air which can infect others. Washing your hands after sneezing, coughing or blowing your nose reduces any infected droplets that could be on your hands being transferred to any surfaces that others may touch.
Frequent hand washing can effectively reduce your chances of getting a respiratory infection or spreading it to others. Frequently touched areas such as, phones, door knobs, light switches and using the bathroom are breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses to thrive in, especially if you are infected and touch these areas and then don't wash your hands.
Steps for clean hands:
Wet hands and lather with soap
Rub palms together, interlacing fingers
Rub backs of hands and be sure to forearms up the elbows
Be sure to scrub tops and underneath fingernails
Viruses and Bacteria can survive on common household surfaces. It is important to keep these areas clean and disinfected.
Use natural cleaning agents such as:
Vinegar, lavender, and lemon are great natural products that can be added together with other natural cleaning products, like castile soap or baking soda.
Vinegar contains acetic acid that makes it a disinfectant and effective against E. Coli, Salmonella and Staphylococcus viruses and bacteria.
Lavender not only smells nice, but it contains antibacterial properties as well.
Lemon is full of natural acid and has powerful antibacterial and antiseptic properties. This makes lemons a great choice for a natural cleaner.
Our immune systems come into contact with viruses and bacteria every day. More likely than not, these bacteria and viruses don't cause serious infection. Practicing good hygiene can only improve our chances of avoiding respiratory infections.