As temperatures drop and people spend more time indoors, the likelihood of spreading infectious diseases increases. Additionally, our immune systems are generally less effective during the winter months, and some pathogens survive better in cold and dry environments.

Here’s some more information about common cold-weather illnesses and the ways to protect yourself from them this winter.

Cold, flu and more

Viral respiratory illnesses like the common cold and influenza are more prevalent in the winter than at any other time of year, said Dr. Hallie Kretsinger, a physician with the Internal Medicine Group at LMH Health. The symptoms for these conditions can vary widely from case to case — some are mild, others can be life-threatening. Here are a few of the most common respiratory illnesses:

• Common cold: This term is used to describe mild respiratory symptoms such as runny nose, congestion and a mild cough.

• Flu: Influenza virus infections generally result in more severe respiratory symptoms than the common cold, such as fever, headache, body aches and a more severe cough.

• Bronchitis: The inflammation of the bronchial tubes which bring air to the lungs. It is usually caused by a viral infection but occasionally can be the result of a bacterial infection. Symptoms include cough, production of mucus, fatigue, shortness of breath, slight fever and chills and chest discomfort.

• Pneumonia: The inflammation of the air sacs of the lungs. It can also be caused by either viral or bacterial infections. Catching a more mild illness like the common cold can make you more susceptible to conditions like pneumonia. Symptoms include cough, fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, nausea and vomiting (especially in young children), and confusion (especially for older people).

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): A common respiratory virus that causes mild cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in one to two weeks, but RSV can be serious for infants and older adults.

Dr. Rashid Riaz, a pulmonologist with Lawrence Pulmonary Specialists, said certain groups might be more at risk for complications from these illnesses.

“Individuals over the age of 65 or with certain health conditions such as heart disease, lung conditions such as COPD or asthma, or people with compromised immune systems may be at a higher risk for more severe illness from conditions like the flu or RSV,” he said.

Even if you aren’t part of a high-risk group, it is still important to be aware of these conditions and monitor your symptoms so you can get the right treatment.

“If you are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms that do not improve, or if you are experiencing severe symptoms, you should contact your doctor,” Kretsinger said.

Prevention and treatment

Especially with the COVID-19 pandemic still going on, disease prevention measures are more important than ever. Many of the same steps that stop COVID-19 can protect you from other respiratory conditions like colds and the flu.

“Last year, we actually had a very mild flu season, which likely is attributed in some part to people wearing masks and avoiding close proximity to others,” Riaz said. “I think the pandemic showed us that if you wear a mask and increase social distancing, you can decrease not only COVID-19 but other illnesses as well.”

Be sure to wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, wear a face mask when around others and avoid large gatherings. Receiving the flu and COVID vaccines can also provide protection and reduce the severity of symptoms from those illnesses.

As for treatment of respiratory viruses, mild cold symptoms can be managed with rest, hydration and over-the counter medications. Antiviral medications can be used to treat influenza infections, so if you suspect you have the flu, contact your doctor to see if you should be tested. You should also contact your doctor if you suspect you have bronchitis or pneumonia, as further evaluation might be required to distinguish between the viral and bacterial forms in order to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Respiratory viruses and COVID-19

COVID-19 is also a viral respiratory infection, and it shares many symptoms with other respiratory viruses that are common in the winter. This can cause people to misdiagnose a more serious condition, like a COVID case, as the flu or a bad cold, and it could lead to further spread of the virus if not treated properly.

Dr. Jennifer Clair, a physician with Total Family Care, said it’s important to stay home from work or school and be tested for COVID if you begin to experience respiratory symptoms.

“Because of the pandemic, we want to be sure that those who are suspected of having COVID are isolating to prevent further spreading of the virus,” she said.

Clair also said treatment for influenza is most effective when started within 48 to 72 hours after symptoms begin. People at high risk of serious illness from COVID may be considered for monoclonal antibodies, a therapy which is also time-dependent.

By taking care of your own health this winter, you also help keep your community healthy and reduce stress on essential medical workers.

“COVID-19 has placed considerable strain on the medical system. In order to prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed and thereby allow them to provide adequate care to patients with COVID-19 (and all hospitalized patients in general), we need to minimize hospitalizations for other preventable conditions such as influenza infection,” Kretsinger said.

If you don’t have a primary care provider, you can schedule an appointment through any LMH Health clinic so that you have a medical professional to contact if you become ill and need further evaluation. Visit lmh.org/primary-care to find a physician.

— Isabel Ashley is a marketing and communications intern at LMH Health, which is a major sponsor of the Journal-World’s Health section.