Ask the Doctor
Q: My nose gets blocked every night in winter. Is it cold allergy?
A: Often it is due to dry indoor air and sudden temperature shifts. Use saline nasal drops, keep your room slightly humid, avoid direct heater air and cover your nose while stepping outdoors.
Q: How can I prevent chest infections during harsh winter months?
A: Ensure good ventilation, avoid indoor smoke from bukharis/kangris, drink warm fluids and take daily steam. Wash hands frequently, avoid touching your face, nose, or mouth, wear masks in crowded indoor spaces, keep asthma/diabetes well controlled and take flu or pneumonia vaccines if recommended.
Q: My BP shoots up every winter. Is weather responsible?
A: Yes. Cold causes blood vessels to constrict, raising BP. Keep warm, avoid early-morning exposure, take medicines on time, monitor BP at home and limit salt intake.
Q: Why does my asthma worsen in cold weather?
A: Cold, dry air irritates the airways and increases inflammation. Use masks outdoors, keep inhalers handy, avoid smoke exposure and take prescribed preventer inhalers regularly.
Q: My feet stay ice-cold in winter. Should I worry?
A: Cold extremities are common, but if there is numbness, pain, or color change, it may indicate poor circulation or diabetes-related nerve issues. Keep feet warm and get checked if symptoms persist.
Q: I get winter cough that lasts for weeks. What causes it?
A: It may be due to dry air, indoor smoke, post-viral cough, or acid reflux. Use warm fluids, avoid irritants, take steam and get medical evaluation if it lasts more than 3 weeks.
Q: I feel extremely thirsty in winter but drink less water. Is that harmful?
A: Yes. Winter dehydration is common and increases headaches, constipation, dry skin, and kidney strain. Drink warm water frequently even if you don’t feel thirsty. Get your blood sugar checked.
Q: How do I know if a simple winter cough has turned into a chest infection?
A: Warning signs include fever, breathlessness, chest pain, yellow/green phlegm, rapid breathing, or symptoms lasting more than 7–10 days. These need medical evaluation and sometimes a chest X-ray.
Q: Why do fungal infections increase when it’s cold and dry?
A: Wearing multiple layers, sweating indoors and reduced bathing can trap moisture in skin folds. Keep folds dry, change sweaters/thermals regularly and use mild antifungal powder.
Q: Why do chest infections worsen at night in winter?
A: Lying down reduces airway clearance and cold indoor air triggers congestion. Elevate your head while sleeping, keep the room slightly warm (not hot), and take steam before bedtime.
NOTE: These responses are for general awareness, not a substitute for medical advice.
Ask your questions at: WhatsApp: 6005463346, Email: ask@moulmoujfoundation.org
