When you have the flu or a cold, why does it get worse at night?

in wave after wave cold, influenza and Coronavirus, if we are unfortunate enough to be infected, as many Spaniards are, any advice to help us relieve our symptoms will be very useful. In this article from Saber Vivir, a doctor explains which medications and treatments are best for treating colds and flu.Symptoms of these diseases such as feverThe intensity of cough, cough, or nasal congestion varies from person to person; but most people affected agree that they usually gets worse at night.Let’s analyze it factor This can lead to more discomfort at nightfall, and what you can do to deal with it.

Why do I have a fever at night?

A fever that worsens at night when you have the flu or a cold may be related to body circadian rhythm

and in what way immune system Respond to infection.

• circadian rhythm: The human body has a circadian rhythm, and the approximately 24-hour biological cycle affects various physiological aspects including body temperature. Body temperature tends to be lowest in the morning and peak in the afternoon or evening. This natural increase in temperature can cause fever to worsen at night.
• immune response: Fever is a normal response of the immune system to infection. During viral infections such as influenza, the body releases substances called endogenous pyrogens, which act on the hypothalamus to raise body temperature. An increase in temperature is good for the body because it can help fight infections by making the environment less conducive to the growth and reproduction of certain pathogens.
• Increased inflammatory activity at night: The activity of the immune system usually increases at night. The production of certain inflammatory substances, such as cytokines, is heightened during this period. This can lead to an increase in fever and other inflammation-related symptoms.

Why are traffic jams increasing and you feeling more tired?

During the day, your body is active and uses a lot of energy to fight infection.When night falls, it’s possible you feel more tired Your immune defenses may be reduced, which may lead to Symptoms are perceived more intensely.

this Insufficient air humidity Staying overnight can dry out the mucous membranes of your nose and throat, causing Stimulate and dry feeling.This can exacerbate discomfort related to Respiratory symptoms.

It can also increase nasal congestion during sleep.this horizontal position It can cause the nasal passages to become more clogged, causing difficulty breathing and increasing feelings of congestion.

How to Reduce the Intensity of Nighttime Symptoms

These tips will help you reduce the intensity of your nighttime symptoms:

• Use a humidifier: Heaters dry out the environment and increase throat irritation and nighttime coughing. Using a humidifier indoors is one solution to prevent drying of mucous membranes.
• Raise the head of the bed: Placing extra pillows to elevate your head can help reduce nasal congestion by promoting the drainage of secretions and improving breathing.
• stay well hydrated: Drinking fluids, such as hot water, broth, or herbal tea, can help stay hydrated and soothe throat irritation.
• Get enough rest: Make sure you get enough rest during the day to avoid extreme exhaustion at night.
• Use medications as medically indicated: Consult a health care professional before taking any medication, but some pain relievers or decongestants may temporarily relieve symptoms.

Remember, although these strategies can help relieve symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.