{"id":1537,"date":"2023-01-20T02:20:10","date_gmt":"2023-01-20T08:20:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lakejacksonent.com\/?p=1537"},"modified":"2023-01-20T02:20:11","modified_gmt":"2023-01-20T08:20:11","slug":"why-are-colds-more-common-during-winter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lakejacksonent.com\/why-are-colds-more-common-during-winter\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Are Colds More Common During Winter?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

During this time of year, it likely feels like you and everyone you know is coughing<\/a>, sneezing and dealing with some type of bug. Let\u2019s examine a few of the reasons why colds are more common during winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cold Air May Affect Immune Response <\/h2>\n\n\n
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A new study published in December of 2022 found that colder temperatures killed off a large amount of virus and bacteria-fighting cells<\/a> within the nostrils. These cells are known as nasal epithelium-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) and having less can potentially increase vulnerability to certain illnesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Specifically, the study found that \u201cThese potent antiviral immune defense functions mediated by TLR3-stimulated EVs were impaired by cold exposure via a decrease in total EV secretion as well as diminished microRNA packaging and antiviral binding affinity of individual EV.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Being Indoors Can Expose You to More Germs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While cold weather may inhibit our immune response, it also causes us to stay indoors a lot more. This means spending more time in enclosed spaces with other people, making it easier for germs to spread. Also, the air tends to be drier which can both irritate our nostrils and cause viruses to remain in the air for a longer period of time, increasing the chances of getting sick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Preventing Colds<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There are steps you can take to reduce your chances of illness this winter, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n