In addition to the cold weather, spending too much time in crowded indoor areas in winter creates the conditions for the spread of many diseases. Low temperatures cause our immune systems to weaken, making viral infections, respiratory tract diseases, and seasonal ailments more common.

The winter months bring an increase in not only common illnesses like the flu and colds, but also more serious conditions such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinusitis. To ensure a healthy season, Dr. Meriç Zeydan, General Medicine Specialist, Medline Adana Hospital, advises taking some simple precautions in advance to prevent these diseases.

1. Flu (Influenza)

Flu, a contagious disease caused by influenza viruses that affects the upper respiratory tract, most often manifests itself with sudden onset of high fever, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, headache, dry cough, and sore throat. Airborne droplets containing the virus are spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. You can also become infected by touching your mouth, nose, or eyes after coming into contact with contaminated surfaces. Flu treatment may require drinking plenty of fluids, getting plenty of rest, and taking antipyretics as recommended by a doctor. In severe cases, antiviral drugs may be necessary as well.

Protection:

• Get your annual flu shot.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap.
• Wear a mask in crowded indoor environments, if possible.
• Strengthen your immune system by eating a healthy, balanced diet.

2. Cold (Common cold)

The common cold is a mild upper respiratory tract infection affecting the nose and throat, usually caused by rhinoviruses. Although it is common, contagious, and can occur throughout the year, it is more common in the fall and winter months. It causes a runny or stuffy nose, a sore throat, sneezing, a mild fever, a cough, and weakness. These symptoms are usually mild and last 2 to 7 days. It spreads through droplets released by an infected person when they cough or sneeze. It can also be caught by touching the mouth, nose, or eyes after coming into contact with an infected surface. The disease is usually self-healing and there is no specific treatment. To alleviate symptoms, drinking plenty of fluids, resting, and use of nasal sprays, or lozenges are recommended.

Protection:

• Keep your hands clean and avoid touching your face.
• Wear appropriate clothing in cold weather.
• Consume foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals.

3. Bronchitis

Inflammation of the bronchial tubes in the lungs leads to a respiratory disease known as bronchitis. There are two types: acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis typically follows a cold or the flu, and is temporary. Chronic bronchitis is more common in smokers. Symptoms include cough, phlegm, and shortness of breath, weakness, and mild fever. Similar to the common cold, acute bronchitis is usually caused by airborne viruses. If symptoms are prolonged or severe, especially in the case of chronic bronchitis, seeking medical attention may be necessary.

Protection:

• Avoid smoking and exposure to polluted air.
• Keep your respiratory tract warm, and avoid inhaling cold air directly.
• Do not neglect treatment for the flu or colds, as they can progress to bronchitis.

4. Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a serious infection of the air sacs in the lungs. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It is especially dangerous for the elderly, children, and people with chronic diseases. It is characterized by high fever, chills, a severe cough (sometimes accompanied by phlegm), and shortness of breath, rapid breathing, chest pain, weakness, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Pneumonia develops when infected airborne droplets are inhaled or when other infections in the body spread to the lungs when the immune system is weak.

Protection:

• Get vaccinated against pneumonia. (especially recommended for people in high-risk groups).
• Have upper respiratory infections, such as influenza, treated promptly.
• Boost your immunity by eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.

5. Sinusitis

Sinusitis is inflammation of the spaces inside the facial bones. It is typically triggered by viral or bacterial infections, or allergic reactions. Acute sinusitis is short-lived, and heals within a few weeks. Chronic sinusitis lasts more than three months and keeps coming back. For mild cases, treatment may include nasal sprays, painkillers, and plenty of fluids. Bacterial infections may require antibiotic treatment under a doctor's supervision. Another option for treating chronic sinusitis is surgical intervention – aka sinus surgery.

Protection:

• Cover your head and face in cold weather..
• Clean your nose regularly, and use a nasal moisturizer.
• If you have any chronic allergies, seek treatment.