Is Your Immune System Weaker in the Winter?
Cold weather is dragging on, and while the cold season lets us enjoy warm blankets, cozy fires, and the occasional snow day, what about the impact on our immune systems?
Last winter, the CDC reported that there are millions of common cold cases reported throughout the year, and that the majority of these cases occur during winter and spring. There are also more respiratory infections reported in the winter, according to Vanderbilt University.
So, with this rise in cold, flu, and respiratory infections, people often wonder, “Is it the cold temperature that’s making me sick?”. In reality, it’s a combination of increased dry air, cold weather, and the amount of time we spend close proximity to people that weakens our body’s immunity.
These factors increase our risk for:
- Common Cold
- Influenza
- Acute Bronchitis
- Chronic Bronchitis
- Whooping cough
- Pneumonia
Boosting Your Immune System with Chiropractic Care
If you’ve already succumbed to a cold, the flu, or some other type of respiratory infection this winter, or maybe you’re curious as to what’s the best way to stay healthy, there are several strategies you can take.
Traditionally, Western medicine has relied on prescription medication to fight off common winter illnesses. But these prescriptions often fight off symptoms once you’ve already acquired them, rather than strengthening your immune systems by tackling what’s weakening them in the first place.
Aside from prescription medicine, people often rely on home remedies to strengthen their immune systems or fight off symptoms if they do wind up getting sick. And while these remedies can work for some people, their overall effectiveness is inconsistent and not always reliable, especially during the cold months.
Another option for strengthening your immune system is chiropractic care. While chiropractors report that patients who receive consistent adjustments show fewer infections each year, many people are skeptical as to whether chiropractic care actually works or not when it comes to the immune system.
Research shows that chiropractic adjustments to the spine have a positive impact on your body’s immune system. This is done by removing any interferences to your body’s nervous system, as well as strengthening your nervous, immune, and hormonal systems - all of which play a part in staving off immune-related illnesses.
If you’re worried about you or your family succumbing to winter illnesses this year, consider pursuing chiropractic care to boost your immune system and help you get through the remaining winter months. To learn more, contact us today!