Winter often brings symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat or mild cough, which are easily considered seasonal discomfort. However, health experts warn that many infections are common in cold weather, even with a mild start, can still progress silently and cause serious complications if not detected and treated promptly.
According to Dr. Brunda MS, senior consultant in Internal Medicine at Aster CMI Hospital (Bangalore, India), cold weather, indoor living, weakened immune system and the habit of drinking less water in winter all contribute to increasing the risk of infection. She emphasized that many seemingly harmless diseases in the early stages can become dangerous if subjective and ignored.
Winter cold can lead to serious health problems
The cold is one of the most commonly overlooked diseases in winter. Although most cases can go away on their own, prolonged nasal congestion or facial pain can be a sign of a duodenal infection. In children, an untreated cold can lead to ear infections, while in adults, it can trigger asthma attacks. Seemingly simple symptoms can last for weeks and cause complications.
Signs of sore throat should not be subjective
Many people think that sore throats are caused by cold weather or talking too much. However, some cases of sore throat are caused by connective bacteria. If collective- bongal sore throat is not treated, the disease can lead to high fever, joint pain and even rare complications in the heart such as rheumatoid fever. Prolonged sore throat, accompanied by fever or difficulty swallowing are signs that should not be ignored.
Dangerous complications of flu
The flu often begins with cold-like symptoms such as body aches, fever, and fatigue. However, the disease can quickly progress to pneumonia, dehydration or shortness of breath, especially in people over 65, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems. Early diagnosis and adequate rest can help avoid serious complications.
Mild cough can hide chest infections
Persistent coughs in winter are often overlooked, but this can be an early sign of bronchitis or chest infection. Delaying treatment or not getting enough rest can progress to a lung infection. Cold air also makes the respiratory tract more sensitive, making the lungs vulnerable.
Urinary tract infections and the risk of dehydration in winter
Urinary tract infections do not only occur in the summer. In winter, many people drink less water, increasing the risk of disease. The slight burning sensation of heat when urinating can be overlooked, but if left untreated, the infection can spread to the kidneys, causing fever, back pain and dangerous complications.
Skin infections on cracked dry skin
Dry weather makes the skin cracked, creating conditions for bacteria and fungi to invade. Initial skin infections can quickly become serious if the skin's protective barrier is damaged, especially in people with diabetes or a weak immune system.
