Itchy Eyes and Runny Nose? You Might Be Facing THIS Health Issue

When the cool wind blows in the morning and evening, the air becomes dry, and the temperature difference increases, making it easier for your immune system to weaken. In autumn, the number of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis also increases due to the abundance of pollen. We have looked into the diseases you should be aware of as we say goodbye to the hot summer and welcome a new season.

A good time for a weakened immune system

During the transition between seasons, the temperature difference increases, causing a decrease in immune system function. Research has shown that with an average increase of about 1℃ in temperature difference, the mortality rate increases by 0.5%. This is because the energy required to maintain body temperature increases with more significant temperature changes. As a result, our bodies use up all the energy allocated to the immune cells, leading to a weakened immune system.

Respiratory mucosa weakens, making it vulnerable to infections

In particular, the immune system of the respiratory system significantly weakens. During the transition between seasons, the humidity decreases, causing the respiratory mucosa to weaken, making it more vulnerable to infections. Symptoms such as fever, runny nose, and cough may occur when cold viruses invade, and it is also important to be cautious of viruses such as influenza and COVID-19.

Allergic conjunctivitis epidemic

Conjunctivitis, a representative allergic disease prone to occur during the transition between seasons, refers to a disease in which the eyelid mucosa or conjunctiva reacts allergically to grass or tree pollen. In autumn, it is often caused by weeds and pollen, and when conjunctivitis occurs, symptoms such as congestion, foreign body sensation, and itching appear. When your eyes are swollen and itchy, it is recommended to apply cold compresses as symptoms can worsen if you rub your eyes.

Aggravation of rhinitis and dermatitis

If you already have rhinitis, your symptoms may worsen during the transition between seasons. Allergic rhinitis is when the nasal mucosa shows hypersensitivity to certain substances or temperature changes, and symptoms worsen during the transition between seasons with larger temperature differences. When rhinitis worsens, it can cause a decrease in concentration and even sleep disorders, so it is essential to visit a hospital and receive prescription medication such as antihistamines or steroids to alleviate symptoms.

Uninvited guests in autumn: cold and flu

Colds, more common in dry autumn than summer, occur when the respiratory mucosa becomes dehydrated and cannot perform properly due to prolonged indoor time and poor ventilation. Cold viruses cause inflammation and infection under such conditions. The difference between the flu and the common cold is the presence of high fever. While the common cold presents symptoms such as cough, headache, and sore throat without fever, the flu is classified into types A, B, and C depending on the influenza virus. It is considered by a high fever of 38℃ or higher.

Sufficient sleep is essential

You know the saying, “Sleep is the best medicine,” right? Regular sleep is of great help to the immune system. It increases the attack ability of white blood cells T-cells, which eliminate virus-infected cells and reduce cortisol secretion, leading to an increase in early immune response and white blood cell activity, thereby strengthening the immune system. On the other hand, lack of sleep increases stress hormones, weakening the immune system. Therefore, it is crucial to get enough quality sleep every day.

Expose yourself to the autumn sunlight

In dry weather, when viruses are active, the length of daylight decreases, resulting in a decrease in serotonin synthesis and a deficiency in nutrients that increase immune system function, such as vitamin D. If you spend all day indoors, why not take a break after lunch and bask in the sunlight? The bright sunlight activates serotonin, the happiness hormone in our body, and increases immune system function.

Drink plenty of water

To enhance immune system function, adequate hydration is necessary. Drink a glass of lukewarm water in the morning, hydrate before meals for 30 minutes, and drink about 2 liters of water a day. Hydration helps maintain a balanced diet and adequate nutrition. It promotes efficient metabolism and rapid elimination of waste materials, making it one of the best ways to support immune system function.

Avoid intense exercise

Exercise is a good thing but avoid excessive and intense exercise. When exercise becomes a stressor, stress hormones are released in the body, which negatively affects immune system function and generates reactive oxygen species. It is more important to engage in moderate and balanced exercise consistently.

Include immune-boosting foods in your diet

Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and has antioxidant effects, helping prevent colds, relieve fatigue, improve skin beauty, and reduce stress. In addition to vitamin C, citrus fruits contain vitamins A and P, which protect blood vessels and prevent hypertension and arteriosclerosis. Pears, good for coughs, are also popular during the transition between seasons. Eating pears or drinking pear juice can help alleviate cough symptoms. Pears also contain enzymes that aid digestion, so eating pears as a dessert is recommended after a heavy meal.

By. Jeon Shin Young (press@daily.co.kr)