Why do you feel worse at night if you have the flu or a cold?
In the middle of the wave cold, flu And COVID-19, any advice that will help us calm the symptoms is very useful if we, like many Spaniards, are unlucky enough to become infected. In this Saber Vivir article, a doctor explained to us which medications and remedies work best for colds and flu. Symptoms of diseases such as heatcough or nasal congestion varies in intensity from person to person; but what most victims agree on is that they usually worse at night. Let’s analyze factors This may contribute to increased discomfort after dark and what you can do to combat it.
Why does the temperature rise at night?
An increase in temperature at night with flu or a cold may be due to body’s circadian rhythm and with how the immune system responds to infection.
- Circadian rhythm: The human body has a circadian rhythm, a biological cycle lasting about 24 hours, which influences various physiological aspects, including body temperature. Body temperature is typically lowest in the early morning hours and reaches its highest in the afternoon or evening. This natural rise in temperature can contribute to worsening fevers at night.
- Immune reaction: Fever is a normal response of the immune system to infections. During a viral infection such as influenza, the body releases substances called endogenous pyrogens, which act on the hypothalamus to increase body temperature. This increase in temperature has benefits for the body because it can help fight infection by making the environment less favorable for the growth and reproduction of certain pathogens.
- Increased inflammatory activity at night.: The activity of the immune system usually increases at night. During this period, the production of certain inflammatory substances, such as cytokines, increases. This can contribute to fever and other symptoms associated with inflammation.
Why does congestion increase and make you feel more tired?
During the day, your body is active and uses a lot of energy to fight infection. When night comes it’s possible that you feel more tired and your immune defenses may be reduced, which may cause symptoms are perceived with greater intensity.
lack of humidity in the air overnight can dry out the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, which will lead to increased irritation And feeling of dryness. This may increase the discomfort associated with respiratory symptoms.
It also increases nasal congestion during sleep. horizontal position This can cause the nasal passages to become even more clogged, making breathing difficult and increasing the feeling of nasal congestion.
How to reduce the intensity of symptoms at night
These tips can help you reduce the intensity of your symptoms at night:
- Use a humidifier: Heaters dry out the environment, increasing throat irritation and nighttime coughs. Using a humidifier in the room is a solution to the problem of dry mucous membranes.
- Raise the head of the bed: Placing extra pillows to elevate the head can help relieve nasal congestion by easing secretions and improving breathing.
- Maintain good hydration: Drinking fluids such as hot water, broth, or herbal tea can help maintain hydration and reduce throat irritation.
- Sufficient rest: Make sure you get enough rest during the day so you don’t leave at night feeling very tired.
- Medicines for medical reasons: Check with your doctor before taking any medications, but some pain relievers or decongestants may temporarily relieve symptoms.
Remember that while these strategies may help relieve symptoms, it is important to seek medical help if symptoms persist or worsen.
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