The seasons are beginning to change. This can bring many advantages with it, but what disadvantages are associated with a seasonal change? Could a change in the seasons affect your health? Many believe that crisper weather will mean the beginning of cold and flu season or at least a sore throat.
Let’s separate fact from fiction. Can you actually get sick from the weather? Can climate change cause a sore throat? Here are some answers.
Sore Throat
A sore throat can be divided into two categories: inflammation of the tonsils or inflammation of the pharynx. These conditions are called tonsillitis and pharyngitis. Typically, this type of inflammation can be caused by viral infections (like the cold or the flu) or bacterial infections (such as strep throat). Another cause of sore throat can be acid reflux, which is actually a digestive disorder. Some illnesses associated with sore throat include bronchitis, pneumonia, the flu, and the common cold. A sore throat can also be a hotspot for bacteria and viruses such as RSV and COVID-19.
But what about allergies? Pollution and changing weather can cause major allergic reactions, which can then lead to sore throat.
How Does a Change in the Weather Cause a Sore Throat?
Changing weather can mean an increase in pollen count and allergens in the environment. When a throat is inflamed due to pharyngitis or tonsillitis, it is at greater risk of contracting a viral or bacterial infection. Most of us have experienced an itchy or scratchy throat. This could be an indication that a sore throat due to an infection is coming. A sore throat can be a minor annoyance, or it can be severe. Sometimes, a sore throat will be accompanied by a cough or even a fever. For this reason, it is essential to pay attention to the symptoms of a sore throat so that it doesn’t become something more serious.
Many factors come into play when it comes to contracting an illness. As our bodies adapt to the changing weather, they can have issues with the change. This can lead to our immune systems not functioning at their top level, increasing the risk of illness.
The adjustment our bodies make from warm to cold weather is particularly disarming. Cold temperatures can weaken the immune system and the risk of seasonal illness increases substantially. A sore throat could be due to or accompanied by a runny nose, cough, congestion, sneezing, chills, fatigue, fever, and more.
Fortunately, there are many over-the-counter and prescription medications available to combat a sore throat. There are also herbal therapies as well as at-home remedies that can help you avoid infection.
How to Combat a Sore Throat Caused by Climate Change
Many home remedies can help protect against an infection once you’ve felt a sore throat due to weather issues or climate change. Here are some possible options.
Warm or Hot Liquids It seems like such a simple remedy, but drinking hot liquids is a solution to a sore throat that has many naturally therapeutic effects. It can increase blood flow to the throat and help to aid in the healing process. Certain teas can also provide antioxidants which help to accelerate the healing process. Be careful not to choose a hot beverage that is caffeinated though. A drink that contains caffeine can cause you to become dehydrated, which can lead to the progression of a throat infection.
Garlic Garlic is a powerful weapon in the battle against a sore throat. It contains naturally antibacterial properties, including a compound called allicin. Allicin is very effective in preventing and treating a bacterial or viral throat infection. Garlic even has properties that can immediately alleviate a sore throat.
Honey Honey is very protective of the throat. It can coat the throat to help eliminate pain, but it also contains antimicrobial properties and can help prevent an irritated throat from becoming an infected throat due to viral or bacterial infection. Due to its many healing qualities, honey is a great choice when it comes to fending off a sore throat.
Apple Cider Vinegar Apple cider vinegar, which contains many antibacterial properties, is an effective tool for protecting against throat infections. It also contains electrolytes, which are very hydrating. These qualities make apple cider vinegar very effective in preventing infection in the throat. Combining apple cider vinegar and hot water can help protect against a sore throat or even treat an existing sore throat.
Gargling Salt Water Adding a half teaspoon of salt to warm water and gargling with it up to four times a day can help heal the throat. Why is this such an effective method? Saltwater dissolves mucus in the throat and increases blood flow, both of which are very effective in preventing throat infections.
Cough Drops Lozenges are not what they used to be. There are cough drops and lozenges that contain important nutrients to protect against illness. Some of these cough drops contain vitamin C or zinc, both of which can assist and boost the immune system.
Conclusion
Whether you are struggling with a climate change sore throat, allergies, or something more serious, such as a cold, the flu, RSV, or COVID-19, you will want to be very proactive in treating your sore throat. When in doubt, schedule a visit with a medical professional.
Village Emergency Centers
If you are looking for help with a throat infection, consult the professionals at Village Emergency Centers. We offer the most comprehensive care at one of Texas’s most prestigious medical centers. We have skilled and compassionate medical professionals who can answer any questions you have about sore throats, as well as answer questions you may have about what type of sore throat you have. Whatever the need, no matter the hour, we will be there to provide medical services and help you with no wait times, friendly staff, and a very experienced medical team. We are open 24/7 and ready to assist you with your emergency needs.
