Vocational School of Justice
WEATHER CHANGE AND SICKNESS
The shift in season brings along several other changes in environment that creates illnesses. Huriye Vural, Lecturer at Vocational School of Health Services, Izmir University of Economics, stated that Turkey experienced seasonal transitions more intense and she said, “The immune system gets affected by this and increases the risk of both physical and mental illnesses.”
Vural pointed that many people got sick especially during the time of seasonal transitions, and therefore, necessary precautions had to be taken to strengthen the immune system. Vural said that children, old people, expectant mothers, and people with chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma were more vulnerable to illnesses during this period. She indicated that people with chronic diseases needed to be under a doctor’s supervision.
Watch Out for Seasonal Depression!
Vural reported that some people complained about more sleep disorders, weakness, tiredness, and depressive moods during seasonal changes. “The risk to develop contagious diseases and seasonal diseases regarding respiratory system and circulatory system due to decreased immune system increases. Cold and flu are the most common respiratory system disorders during this time. Also mood changes are experienced due to early sunset and lack of daylight which result in increased seasonal depressions. Weight gain is also experienced during this time,” pointed Vural.
Recommendations…
Vural suggested the following in order to increase body’s immune system:
“Make sure the indoor temperature is within regular limits. Dress accordingly. Try not to sweat too much. Wash hands frequently to avoid infections. Stay away from crowded indoors. Do not reuse tissues, handkerchiefs, discard them immediately. Eat a well-balanced diet. Take lots of liquids. Follow a consistent sleep routine. Plan a daily outdoor activity, try to get enough sunlight, or seek professional counseling if necessary.”