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Thyroid and Women’s Health Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND Thyroid health is important for our overall wellbeing. But did you know that it can also affect women’s health concerns? In general women are more likely to be diagnosed with thyroid issues. In fact, up to …
Thyroid Health and the Adrenal Glands Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND When it comes to holistic health care 2 of the most common things to talk about are thyroid health and adrenal health. What is interesting about these 2 topics is that they are more …
Summer Colds
Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND
Most people have had a cold in the summertime at least once during their lifetime. But why do summer colds even happen? And while yes, I know you know the symptoms of a cold I will still do a quick refresher on those! Lastly, which nutrients are the best to help fight off the summer sniffles? It is a lot to cover so let us get into it, shall we?
Why do summer colds happen? Well as we know, colds are caused by a virus. Some of these viruses are more prevent in winter and thus spread in the colder winter season. Other viruses thrive in warmer weather and thus transmit from person to person more easily in the summer months. During the summer there tends to be many large gatherings with people close together. For example, amusement parks, cruise ships and even traveling to summer vacation spots on airplanes are all situations that are conducive to spreading a virus. In addition to spending time close to other people in the summer people often spend long hours in air conditioning. Viruses spread very easily in the cool and dry air that the AC creates. (1) In my clinical experience, in addition to the cool and dry air AC is a risk because going in and out of the cold AC frequently can be difficult for the body to adjust to. I have also found that AC can dry out mucus membranes. Both can affect our overall immunity, and this can leave us vulnerable to an upper respiratory infection such as a cold. Another risk factor for summer colds is an inability to access handwashing facilities. Remember the best way to reduce the transmission of a virus is to wash your hands! However, in places like the park this may not be possible. (1)
Since summer colds tend to be caused by a different virus than the typical winter cold virus, they may have different symptoms than you would expect. Common respiratory symptoms include runny nose, cough, sore throat, headaches, fever and even body aches. In addition to these respiratory symptoms, a summer cold can also cause digestive symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, and an upset stomach. (2) Other symptoms can include feeling pressure in the sinuses or your head. You may notice a decrease in energy. Some viruses can also cause mouth blisters, hand/feet blisters and even pink eye!
What are the most common risk factors for catching a summer cold? Spending time around children (studies find that they typically do not wash their hands). Spending time in an enclosed public space. Going in and out of AC frequently is a risk. Being incredibly young or old can increase your risk of a cold. Not practicing good hygiene (for example not washing your hands, touching your face etc.). Lastly, having a weak immune system for any reason such as stress or lack of sleep. (3)
So, what can you do to prevent a summer cold or to reduce the symptoms?
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How the Thyroid Impacts Weight Management Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND One topic that comes up often around summertime is weight management. Everyone wants to be ready for the beach! And one part of managing our weight is by working with our thyroid. Everyone knows the …
Bug Bites and other Outdoor Irritants to the Skin Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND Camping is a popular and fun summer activity! But camping and other outdoor activities can put you at an increased risk of skin concerns such as mosquito bites and poison Ivy! There …
Summertime Blues
Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND
You may have heard of something called SAD or seasonal affective disorder. This is sometimes referred to as the “wintertime blues”. What you may not be aware of is that while SAD is typically associated with winter it can and does occur in the summertime. Let us get into it, shall we?
Let us start with the typical symptoms associated with SAD. You may notice a persistent low mood, irritability, low energy/fatigue and even have trouble concentrating. You may have a loss of interest in normal activities. Activities that you normally enjoy may give you little to no pleasure. There may be feelings of despair, guilt and even worthlessness. You may crave foods high in carbs and even gain weight. You may even find yourself sleeping longer and have a harder time walking up. Lastly you may notice a change in your sex drive. Now while these are the typical signs of wintertime SAD in those with summertime SAD, some of these symptoms can be the opposite of those with winter associated SAD. What exactly do I mean by that? Well, those who experience SAD in the winter have noted they sleep more whereas those with SAD noted they sleep less and even experience insomnia. Some people with summertime SAD also experience a sharp decrease in their appetite that leads to weight loss rather than the craving for carbs and typical weight gain that is expected. Some people also describe an increase in their overall anxiety. There may also be physical signs such as headaches or even body tension. (2) One of the major differences between summer and winter time SAD is when the symptoms occur. For those who experience summertime SAD these symptoms will be worse in the summer and improve in the winter. Obviously, wintertime SAD is the opposite. (1)
But why does summertime SAD occur at all? I know you are thinking who could be sad while the sun is out and the weather is nice and warm?? While we do not know for sure what the cause is there are a number of things that may contribute to the development of summertime SAD. The longer daylight hours as well as the intense heat of summer can disrupt sleep and affect the circadian rhythm leading to insomnia and mood changes. During the sunny hot weather of summer there may be changes in melatonin and even serotonin regulations. This can trigger mood changes. For many with summertime SAD there is an increased sensitivity to heat, humidity, and even bright sunlight. For those who are sensitive it can exacerbate feelings of agitation and exhaustion and even emotional distress.
Summertime tends to be a time of social gathering especially involving activities that typically include clothing that exposes more skin. This can trigger anxiety, worsen low self-esteem, and trigger depression. Even just the pressure to attend the events can trigger SAD. For some it is a “pressure to go” to the events or to decline invitations. For example, if the event is going to be in sunshine and you are on a medicine that makes you photosensitive you may become depressed because you cannot go but you want to. (2)
What can you do to help fight against the summertime blues?
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