Diseases and pests increase in winter. The body becomes stiff in cold weather. Blood circulation is also hampered. In addition, the incidence of infectious diseases also increases in winter. Along with these diseases, some old respiratory diseases also resurface.
Dr. Rashedul Hasan Kanak, Associate Professor of the Department of Medicine at Greenlife Medical College, gave details on ways to protect oneself from winter diseases.
The common cold is more or less common throughout the year, but it is more common during this time. It is caused by various viruses (about 200 types). Affected patients may have a stuffy nose, runny nose, headache, sore throat, physical weakness, body aches, sneezing, coughing, and a low-grade fever. In most cases, the patient recovers within 2-4 days without the help of any medication.
Adequate rest, moderate fluid intake, gargling with warm salt water, eating honey, and avoiding cold water and food can provide good results. However, children, the elderly, and patients with various complex diseases may need to consult a doctor. For prevention, wash hands frequently, avoid touching your nose and mouth, and do not use everyday items of infected family members.
Flu or influenza
Influenza has more severe symptoms than the common cold. Additional symptoms of the common cold may include vomiting and diarrhea. The disease is spread by the influenza virus. It is spread through saliva released by an infected person through sneezing and coughing, so its transmission increases in closed spaces. Since this virus changes its type from year to year, the conventional vaccine against it must be taken every year. Children, the elderly, and people with various complex diseases should take this vaccine. Although most symptoms usually subside within 7-10 days, it can sometimes take more than two weeks for the cough to get better. If the symptoms are severe or for people, children, and the elderly who already have complex diseases, they should consult a doctor. In addition to all treatments like the common cold, antiviral medications may sometimes be required in this case.
Bronchitis
It starts like a common cold. Later, a dry cough is accompanied by a large amount of phlegm. It can be accompanied by shortness of breath, wheezing and wheezing in the chest, and watery eyes. Smokers may be more likely to develop this disease. In addition, those who have allergies, sinusitis, tonsils, or adenoids can also be affected.
Although most cases resolve within two weeks, the cough can persist for months. Sometimes, it manifests as a symptom of pneumonia. In addition to home remedies, you should also seek medical advice.
Pneumonia
While a third of pneumonias are caused by viruses, most pneumonias are caused by bacteria. This disease can cause high fever with chills and shivering, a cough with phlegm, shortness of breath, confusion, rapid pulse, low blood pressure, chest pain, headache, and body aches.
Sometimes pneumonia can be life-threatening. If you suspect pneumonia, you should seek medical advice immediately. The doctor will treat you at home or in the hospital based on the type of pneumonia. In this case, some tests are required. There are several vaccines against pneumonia, which, if taken with the advice of a doctor, can provide some relief from its attack.
Rhinitis and sinusitis
In this case, there is nasal congestion, mild shortness of breath, and headache. In most cases, no antibiotics are needed. Some allergy medications, nasal sprays, and hot water vapor can provide relief.
Ear infection
There may be ear pain, nasal congestion, dizziness, pus coming out of the ear, etc. In this case, if you do not seek the advice of a specialist doctor, the eardrum may be damaged and permanent hearing problems may occur.
Asthma
Although it is a year-round disease, it is more common in winter due to dry weather, cold air and various allergies. Those who already have asthma should use an inhaler as per the doctor's advice. It should be remembered that inhalers are the most modern and initial treatment for asthma, which has no side effects. For those whose asthma is not controlled by inhalers alone, various types of oral medications are used. However, a doctor's advice is essential here. Along with this, it is necessary to follow a clean environment and hygiene rules.
Arthritis and pain
The incidence of various types of arthritis and pain increases during winter. Therefore, those who already have problems should exercise along with taking medication according to the rules. Do not take painkillers without consulting a doctor. The doctor will prescribe painkillers based on the nature of your pain, heart, kidney, liver and stomach conditions.
English 
বাংলা