A/C or heater? Can altering climate in Houston make you sick?

HOUSTON – Houston’s climate is thought to be unpredictable.

One day, it’s possible you’ll end up bundled up in opposition to a cold breeze, solely to crank up the air-con as temperatures soar the following.

READ: What’s going around? These cases are surging among children in Houston

This fixed fluctuation between cold and hot situations has left many questioning: Can such climate swings make you sick?

While temperature adjustments themselves don’t instantly trigger sickness, they will contribute to situations that make folks extra inclined to getting sick. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sudden climate shifts can problem the physique’s potential to control temperature, resulting in stress on the immune system.

How temperature adjustments have an effect on well being:

Respiratory points

Sudden climate adjustments can irritate the respiratory system. The American Lung Association notes that chilly air can dry out nasal passages, making it simpler for viruses to enter. Warmer, humid situations may set off allergic reactions and bronchial asthma signs.

Weakened immune response

The physique’s immune response could weaken when adjusting to abrupt temperature adjustments, making it simpler to catch colds or the flu, in keeping with well being consultants from Baylor College of Medicine.

Increased allergy signs

Rapid climate adjustments typically imply fluctuating pollen ranges. The National Weather Service (NWS) explains that heat days can prolong the allergy season, whereas cool snaps can set off indoor allergens like mud mites.

Although many diseases are going round places of work, colleges and daycares, there are a number of methods you possibly can keep wholesome, regardless of the climate adjustments.

• Start by being ready by checking KPRC 2′s Storm Trackers to maintain up with well timed climate adjustments as temps fluctuate by carrying layers that may be added or eliminated as wanted.

• Be certain to remain hydrated as fluids assist preserve mucous membranes moist, serving to to chase away germs.

• If you may have air purifiers, now could be the time to make use of them and clear your HVAC filters recurrently to scale back allergens,

• Also, bear in mind to clean your arms incessantly. I do know hand sanitizer is handy, however the conventional handwashing technique is more practical in stopping the unfold of germs, particularly throughout chilly and flu season.