Can a sudden change in the weather affect your health?

Can a sudden shift in the weather trigger certain illnesses? Absolutely. Climate change is one of the environmental risk factors most doctors consider when assessing their patients for certain conditions.

Weather changes can strain the immune and musculoskeletal systems, as the body must quickly adjust to new conditions. Unfortunately, sometimes our bodies have a difficult time adjusting, which can trigger an illness.

Here are six health conditions that a sudden change in the weather can trigger:

1. Infections and illnesses of the upper respiratory tract

Dressing improperly for weather may weaken immune response and increase risk of upper respiratory infections.

When temperatures are fluctuating, doctors recommend dressing in light layers to add or shed depending on the weather.

2. Chronic sinus and throat issues

Heating and air systems struggle to keep up with fluctuating temperatures, and alternating heating and cooling systems can dehumidify air.

Dehumidified air filled with pollen, dust, mold and mildew can possibly lead to severe and chronic sinus and throat issues. So it’s important to change heating and air filters every six months.

A humidifier can also help to add moisture to the air.

3. Seasonal asthma and bronchitis triggered by cold air

Cold air can trigger seasonal asthma or bronchitis. People who have these conditions should be prepared to use an inhaler seasonally to avoid severe and chronic coughing episodes.

Cold air can trigger airway tightening in people with asthma, making breathing difficult and potentially dangerous without treatment.

4. Seasonal allergies from pollen

Plants get just as confused as people do with the changing weather patterns. Which means flowers bloom early and release pollen, worsening symptoms for people with seasonal allergies.

5. Cold and flu outbreaks

As the weather temporarily improves, it is common for families, co-workers, and school children to gather for group activities. IIf one person has a cold or the flu; you may see a minor "outbreak" of illness following those gatherings.

Doctors say hand hygiene and cleaning shared spaces can help control the spread of infections. 

6. Muscle and joint injuries

When the weather warms up, people are eager to head outdoors. But overdoing activity on muscles and joints that have been hibernating during the cold winter months can lead to injuries.

A good rule before starting physical activities is to begin slowly and build intensity gradually.

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