Dangerous Heat: Why We Catch Colds In Summer And How To Avoid It

In summer, people get sick no less than in winter - this is a real fact, the truth of which should not be doubted. Moreover, it is even easier to get sick with colds or acute respiratory infections in summer than at other times of the year. The thing is that in the autumn-winter period there is usually a flu epidemic, but other colds are not seasonal. To reduce the risk of colds, it is important to be aware of a number of dangers that begin to threaten us with the onset of summer. The main ones were sorted out together with the therapist of the European Medical Center Anna Kulinkovich.

Danger # 1: air conditioners and coolers

The ideal environment for many microorganisms is moisture and warmth. Similar conditions are created inside air conditioners. In summer, as you know, we close our windows and turn on the air conditioner much more often, thereby creating a favorable environment for bacteria to multiply and spread viruses. That is why it is very important to ventilate the premises at least three times a day and change the air conditioner filters on time. Such measures are effective in preventing respiratory diseases.

Another important point: in the summer we often use coolers and drink cold water from them, while filters and internal systems of coolers are also extremely attractive to microorganisms. Do not forget to clean the coolers on time, and when leaving the house, take a bottle of water with you.

Danger # 2: dirty hands and food escapades

Numerous studies have not found a link between eating cold foods and colds or sore throats. It would seem that in this case, you can safely eat ice cream on a bench in your favorite park and enjoy life without second thoughts. But not everything is so cloudless. The main danger lies in the fact that when we eat or drink on the street, we often touch our face with our hands, while we do not always follow the guidance of timely hand hygiene. It is important to remember that it is uncleanliness that contributes to the development of infections.

Summer is the peak of the season for intestinal infections, as well as "intestinal flu", which is actually a manifestation of an enterovirus infection and is often accompanied by a cough, sore throat, rash (read also: "Not just acne: what diseases are indicated by skin problems") … Be sure to wash your hands before eating or use a sanitizer. And, of course, don't eat in questionable places.

Danger # 3: diet errors

For many, the beginning of the summer cottage season is an inevitable violation of all previous diets. Agree, it is very difficult to give up barbecue and other delicacies outdoors in good company. However, such components of the diet can have the most negative impact on health. An excess of red meat, animal fats, smoked meats and spices, as well as a violation of the diet and going beyond the usual portions can provoke an exacerbation of many chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as negatively affect the intestinal flora.

Currently, the intestinal microflora or, as they say now, "microbiota" is recognized as another human organ. It has been proven that it has a huge impact not only on the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, but also on the well-coordinated functioning of the nervous system, the development of cardiovascular diseases, oncology, as well as on the proper functioning of the immune system. Do not forget, especially in summer, that a healthy diet is the key to strong immunity (see also: "9 foods to boost immunity").