Why do we fall a sick in winter?
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And colds, rhinitis, pharyngitis, bronchitis, flu ... are not the only ones concerned diseases: heart disease also increases when it is cold and there is a significant increase in mortality during the winter months.
We explain why we are most vulnerable, and the stronger virus in winter.
Biological causes
The cold makes them more resistant viruses: it strengthens the shell that surrounds and protects the virus (see influenza virus seen under the microscope).The lower sunlight promotes the multiplication of viruses, as ultraviolet rays weaken.
Physiological causes
Our lungs would not stand to receive very cold air: our organization is therefore developing a whole system to warm the inspired air before it reaches the lungs. For this, the nasal mucosa to that mix air with water at body temperature (this is why we have nose "flowing" in winter). This reaction warms inhaled air, but dries out the mucus that lines the nasal mucous membranes without this natural protective barrier, bacteria and viruses penetrate more easily into our bodies through our nose.
The cold slows down our immune system: viruses have more time to "settle down" before the immune reaction is triggered.
The cold reduces the effectiveness of cilia that cleanse the bronchi (see diagram), which promotes the accumulation of mucus and germs.
The cold reduces the caliber of blood vessels (vasoconstriction): The heart gets tired faster.
Behavioral causes
When it's cold, we remain locked up, often several, in little or ventilated spaces: the transmission of infections (viral or bacterial) is facilitated by this promiscuity.
The interiors (houses, apartments) are insufficient ventilation: the air dries out, and air pollutants are concentrated, which causes irritation of the nasal passages and bronchial tubes.
When it's cold, our diet is richer in fats, and we practice less physical activity, which promotes cardiovascular pathologies.
In conclusion
We can hardly avoid being faced with the cold, and we can not change the natural reactions of our body.But we can change our habits:
- ventilate rooms in the house, even if temperatures are low, at least 1/4 hour each day.not to abuse too high fat diet.
- continue to do a sports minimum, adapting exercises practiced to climatic conditions.
- avoid as much as possible to stay locked in a stuffy room in the presence of other people especially during epidemics (eg coffee breaks).
Source by: Wintertime