A/C or heater? Can changing weather in Houston make you sick?

HOUSTON – Houston’s weather is known to be unpredictable.

One day, you may find yourself bundled up against a chilly breeze, only to crank up the air conditioning as temperatures soar the next.

READ: What’s going around? These cases are surging among children in Houston

This constant fluctuation between hot and cold conditions has left many wondering: Can such weather swings make you sick?

While temperature changes themselves don’t directly cause illness, they can contribute to conditions that make people more susceptible to getting sick. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sudden weather shifts can challenge the body’s ability to regulate temperature, leading to stress on the immune system.

How temperature changes affect health:

Respiratory issues

Sudden weather changes can irritate the respiratory system. The American Lung Association notes that cold air can dry out nasal passages, making it easier for viruses to enter. Warmer, humid conditions can also trigger allergies and asthma symptoms.

Weakened immune response

The body’s immune response may weaken when adjusting to abrupt temperature changes, making it easier to catch colds or the flu, according to health experts from Baylor College of Medicine.

Increased allergy symptoms

Rapid weather changes often mean fluctuating pollen levels. The National Weather Service (NWS) explains that warm days can extend the allergy season, while cool snaps can trigger indoor allergens like dust mites.

Although many illnesses are going around offices, schools and daycares, there are several ways you can stay healthy, despite the weather changes.

• Start by being prepared by checking KPRC 2′s Storm Trackers to keep up with timely weather changes as temps fluctuate by wearing layers that can be added or removed as needed.
• Be sure to stay hydrated as fluids help keep mucous membranes moist, helping to ward off germs.
• If you have air purifiers, now is the time to use them and clean your HVAC filters regularly to reduce allergens,
• Also, remember to wash your hands frequently. I know hand sanitizer is convenient, but the traditional handwashing method is more effective in preventing the spread of germs, especially during cold and flu season.