Four seasons in one day can make you both psychologically and metabolically ill!

Our country is located in the transition region, which is most affected by global climate changes. Recently, these climate changes have undoubtedly led to sudden and unexpected changes in air temperatures across the country.  In fact, these sudden temperature changes, which bring all four seasons together in one day, can negatively affect our health both psychologically, physically and metabolically.

Altınbaş University Department of Chest Diseases Faculty Member Prof. Dr. Şevket Özkaya pointed out that with the changing weather conditions, flu and similar diseases, which are frequently seen especially in winter, can now be seen in every season. Prof. Dr. Özkaya said, “With the effect of climate changes, seasonal diseases have started to appear in every period regardless of the season. Experiencing four seasons in one day can immediately affect our body systemically, easily causing complaints such as fever, cough, weakness, prolonged fatigue and joint pains. In fact, these symptoms can recur at the slightest temperature change and turn into “chronic flu”.” He said.

Pointing out that the psychological effects of sudden temperature and climate changes are also quite large, Prof. Dr. Özkaya said, “These changes can lead to physical and emotional symptoms such as anxiety, worry, sleep problems, muscle aches and eating disorders. While women may be more sensitive to weather changes, behavioral changes such as sleep problems, aggression and intolerance are often observed in men.” He explained both the physical and psychological effects of variable weather conditions.

Stating that it is very important to be able to adapt our body to these unstable weather conditions, Prof. Dr. Özkaya pointed out that habits that disrupt nighttime sleep patterns and eating and drinking patterns, as well as the hours of medications used may need to be regulated. In addition, it is of great importance to choose appropriate clothing against sudden temperature changes in the indoor and outdoor environment during the day. Since thin or thick-sweating clothes can lead to recurrence of complaints, dressing correctly is an important factor in protecting our health.

Finally, Prof. Dr. Şevket Özkaya stated that in these conditions, getting psychological support and, if necessary, acting with expert advice is an important step to protect both our physical and emotional health.