“Summer flu”: symptoms, treatment and how to protect yourself

In the long hot summer days we can not only enjoy the days and nights, leisure activities and relaxing vacations, we are also free from the snot, sneezes and coughs that surround us during autumn and winter. Or not, because we can get a “summer flu”, which can be extremely annoying, as it causes headaches, fever and cough that, with the heat, become even more unbearable.

Summer flu?

The term “summer flu” is somewhat misleading. In the vast majority of cases, summer respiratory illnesses are not a true flu. What we colloquially call “summer flu” is actually a common cold.

The flu is caused by influenza viruses and can sometimes cause severe symptoms. Colds are caused by a number of other viruses, usually enteroviruses. They can also be caused by adenoviruses or human parainfluenza viruses, which occur in the summer and early fall as triggers for flu-like illness.

Coxsackie virus, an enterovirus, is a common cause of what is commonly known as the “summer flu.” The virus multiplies in the human intestine and is spread mainly through contact. If there is a lack of hygiene, the viruses that are excreted with the feces can remain on the hands and skin and transmitted from person to person by touch. It can also be transmitted through airborne droplet infections.

Cold Viruses Too they can be easily transmitted when summer temperatures are really high. Special circumstances can make it easier for viruses to outwit our immune systems and trigger infections in the body. Typical causes include:

1. Fans

In summer we like to cool off with fans that provide a refreshing current. However, mucous membranes can dry out very quickly, making you more susceptible to infection.

Table fans that blow cool, dry air directly into our faces and noses they are particularly harmful to our mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. As a result, the sinuses and turbinates dry out quickly.

2. air conditioners

Air conditioners blow very cold air indoors and their function is to help us cope with high temperatures, but it is not good for your health to leave them running all day.

Moving from muggy outdoor areas to heavily air-conditioned indoors or cars can reduce the effectiveness of the immune system in fighting viruses.

summer flu symptoms

Since the summer flu is a cold or flu-like infection, the typical symptoms of respiratory illness are very similar to those of the flu or common cold. The following symptoms usually occur:

Cough Hoarseness Headache Sore throat Fever

Coxsackie viruses may be responsible for these symptoms and also for other intestinal symptoms, such as stomach ache and diarrhea.

How long does the disease last?

Colds like the summer flu they are usually milder than the real flu and don’t come on as suddenly and unexpectedly. Typical symptoms usually take a few days to manifest after infectious contact. The discomfort can last from 6 to 14 days.

how to treat the “summer flu”

To support the healing process, some home remedies and tips can help.

Clear the mucus stuck in the throat by drinking plenty of fluids. The liquid keeps the mucous membranes moist and helps you cough.Thyme and ginger are natural expectorants. A warm infusion of thyme can clear the airways and help calm bronchial irritation. Like spicy ginger, thyme also has an anti-inflammatory and slightly antibiotic effect, perfect for treating the summer flu naturally. If you have a stuffy nose You can do a nasal wash.You can also steam. Follow a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins. Heavy physical or mental tasks should be avoided during illness. Stress and excitement should also be avoided. If symptoms worsen or do not go away in 14 days, consult with the doctor.

How to prevent the “summer flu”

The best is Protect yourself against the summer flu in the same way as against other infectious diseases:

Hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water. Avoid touching your face, especially near your eyes, nose, and mouth.Strengthens the immune system: A healthy diet, regular exercise, and enough sleep can strengthen your defenses against viruses.Hydration: Drink plenty of water, especially in hot weather, to avoid dehydration, which can weaken your immune system.Avoid the crowds: in large crowds, you are more likely to run into someone who is sick and spreading a virus.Ensure good ventilation: Viruses can spread more easily in poorly ventilated rooms.