Doctor highlights easily-confused illnesses that mimic cold weather effects
by Lucy Skoulding, Neil Shaw · ChronicleLiveA GP has issued an alert suggesting that symptoms of specific medical conditions might be confused for the physiological reactions to falling temperatures. This advisory arrives alongside yellow warnings from the Met Office for potential snow and ice in certain regions next week, complemented by cautions from the UK Health Security Agency about the cold weather potentially being a 'risk to life'.
Dr Donald Grant, who is both a general practitioner and a senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, expressed: "During the colder months of the year, a range of illnesses and conditions can leave people feeling under the weather. However, the drastic change in weather conditions can lead people to mistake their illnesses for natural responses to the cold."
Dr Grant proceeds to outline several maladies warranting attention during the frosty season, elaborating on how their symptoms could be interpreted.
Bronchitis
Concerning bronchitis, which is an infection inflaming the respiratory pathways, he explains: "Firstly, bronchitis, a respiratory infection caused by airway inflammation, can have symptoms that overlap with those of cold weather. Cold air itself can irritate the airways, leading to coughing and increased mucus production as a natural defence.Hence, Dr Grant reasons, the consistent cough and mucous accumulation that are hallmarks of bronchitis could be wrongly attributed to a mere reaction to winter's bite. He cautions that if symptoms such as chest congestion, wheezing or shortness of breath manifest, these could be indicative of the infectious ailment."
The condition can range in severity, with acute and chronic bronchitis offering varying intensity of symptoms - despite this if symptoms persist for more than a few days, it's best to seek tailored advice and treatment from a GP, reports the Mirror.
Pneumonia
"Pneumonia is another common illness that is often mistaken for winter weather symptoms. Coughing, cold chills and shortness of breath can all be overlapping symptoms of the weather and this harmful illness."
"Untreated pneumonia can prove extremely risky to health - particularly towards older individuals and those with a compromised immune system, reports Surrey Live. As a result, people suffering from pneumonia should seek antibiotic treatment from their GP."
Sinus Infections
"Next, sinus infections can cause nasal blockages and runny noses - two extremely common symptoms of the body reacting to cold weather."
"However, this infection - caused by fluid build-up in the face's air pockets - also causes a fever and intense headaches. Examining discharge from the nose can also help spot a sinus infection as it's typically thicker in appearance."
"Treatments such as Sudafed Sinus-Ease 0.1% Nasal Spray can prove incredibly effective at targeting congestion and pressure caused by sinusitis. This spray is fast-acting and provides up to 10 hours of relief from symptoms, it's available over the counter and works by constricting the blood vessels in the nasal passages."
Asthma
"As the temperature takes a nosedive, health professionals are raising concerns about winter's chilling effect on our respiratory system. The dry air associated with cold winter weather can lead to the constriction of our airways, resulting in coughing fits, wheezing, and overall difficulty in breathing. These are classic signs of asthma, yet they're frequently misinterpreted as the body's normal reaction to frigid conditions.The similarity in symptoms can make it tricky to distinguish between an asthma attack and a typical response to winter weather, particularly as the mercury drops. However, medical practitioners are equipped with straightforward tests to diagnose asthma and provide treatment plans, including inhalers, to ensure steady breathing throughout the icy months."
Through simple tests, a doctor can identify asthma and suggest potential treatments like inhalers to assist individuals with their respiratory function during the colder period.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
"The gloomy skies and short days of winter can also wreak havoc on our mental well-being. The harsher weather and reduced sunlight exposure can have a drastic effect on people's moods. If someone isn't aware of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), they may have trouble uncovering why they feel lower or less motivated."
Experts are offering advice on how to combat the winter blues, recommending that people should make the most of available sunlight and adopt healthy lifestyle choices. "To fend off the winter blues, experts suggest soaking up every ray of sunshine and embracing healthy habits. To avoid SAD, it's important to make the most of the daylight we do have and practise good habits such as mindfulness and the maintenance of a well-balanced and healthy diet, as this can help regulate moods."
They also warn not to ignore the signs of cold-induced discomfort too hastily: "And don't brush off those nippy fingers too quickly it could be more than just the chill."
Raynaud's Disease
When it comes to Raynaud's Disease, many might dismiss early symptoms as mere reactions to the cold. "Finally, Raynaud's can cause hands and joints to feel tingly and change in colour - which many people quickly put down to the change in temperature, with cold weather typically having a similar effect."
However, if these symptoms persist or worsen, it may indicate the presence of Raynaud's Disease. "However, if symptoms worsen or persist, the chances are they could be suffering from Raynaud's Disease. It's important to avoid sudden changes in temperatures and cold surfaces while prioritising warm clothing if an individual is suffering from Raynaud's."
For those who suspect they may have Raynaud's, seeking medical advice is crucial. "A GP can provide more tailored advice and recommend potential medications to minimise symptoms. Overall, this winter, it's vitally important to monitor symptoms when people believe they're suffering from a harmful illness."
The guidance concludes by stressing the importance of recognising when an illness may need medical intervention. "Often, there are various indicators that the illness could be more serious or require medical attention. ".
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