Common ENT conditions that can affect you in winters

 

Runny nose, hoarse throat and blocked ears are the signs that winters are here. While many of you must be waiting for the season as finally, you will be getting relief from the scorching heat of the summer sun, but most of us don't realise that the cold winter season brings with it the higher risks of various diseases and ailments. These include a wide spectrum of ENT problems as well, i.e. that specifically involve the eyes, nose and throat.

We are going to discuss three such problems in this blog, with the help of the top ENT specialist in Jaipur.

 

●     Influenza - Commonly referred to as the flu, it is one of the most common ENT problems, that can affect people of any age group. The infection is triggered by a virus that rigorously attacks the respiratory system giving rise to symptoms like high fever, cold, cough, body pain and headaches. You are likely to experience the symptoms for about a week and the experience can be quite uncomfortable. Although there is no treatment for curing influenza, there are medicines that can help to alleviate the symptoms and give relief. As per the best doctor in Jaipur, the use of antiviral medication can help to reduce the course of illness by a day or two. It is pertinent to note that Influenza is extremely contagious, and you can easily pass it on to people around you. Hence, it is important to isolate yourself in a separate room as soon as you are diagnosed.

 

●     Strep throat - The infection is triggered by bacteria, streptococci and is marked by symptoms like soreness in the throat, abdominal discomfort, headache and fever. The type of infection varies from one person to another, depending upon the type of bacteria, the most common of which is group A Streptococcus bacteria. It can affect children, as well as adults, however, children lying in the age group of 5 to 15 years are highly susceptible to it. The symptoms are quite common and often mistaken for some other condition. It is due to this very reason that proper treatment and assessment are crucial for ensuring the right treatment. The condition can be easily managed with the help of antibiotics and proper rest.

 

●     Pneumonia - Another bacterial infection that is more likely to happen in winters is pneumonia. It is quite similar to the common cold in terms of the symptoms, however, you may also experience fever and shivers. The condition is likely to cause the inflammation of air sacs in either one or both lungs. Just like in the case of the common cold, you may feel a little better sometimes, but it doesn't last long. The symptoms tend to fluctuate. In extreme cases, you may even need hospitalization. Mild cases of pneumonia can be easily managed with the help of antibiotics.

 

How to avoid such infections during winter?

Each and every person is susceptible to such infections, which means that you have to take extra care during the winters to keep yourself warm. Here are a few tips recommended by the experts specialising in ENT treatment in Jaipur, that might come in handy.

●     Cover yourself with layers of sweaters and a jacket or coat on top, to protect yourself from the harsh weather.

●     Don't leave your house without covering your mouth weather a warm muffler or scarf.

●     Stay hydrated whether you are feeling thirsty or not.

●     Focus on eating healthy and include fresh fruit and vegetables in your meals, as these will help to boost your immunity.

●     Indulge in physical activity and don't let the cold hamper your exercise routine

Get in touch with your doctor if you are experiencing any symptoms and seek immediate medical intervention.