Can Sudden Temperature Fluctuations Make You Sick?

Many people believe that sudden weather changes can make you feel under the weather. In Indiana, where our winter temperatures can go from mild to extremely cold in just a few hours, there is ample opportunity to test this theory.

It Takes More Than Just Cold Weather
According to the doctors fluctuating temperatures alone don’t make you sick.  It takes being exposed to the actual bacteria or viruses to contract an illness. But living in an area where the temperatures vary significantly can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to those germs.

The changing temps can also cause certain symptoms. Cold air can make your nose run and constrict airways. If there’s a storm on the way, atmospheric pressure changes can cause joint pain or even migraine headaches for some people.

Moving Inside Adds To Our Exposure
Our own behavior can also contribute to being more prone to getting sick when it gets colder outside. Illnesses spread where people congregate.  So as we move inside to get out of the cold that’s when viruses like the common cold, the flu and other bacteria more easily spread.

So when the temperatures start to fluctuate, you’ll want to do what you can to boost your own immune system. This includes eating right, exercising and getting a good night’s sleep.

Fluctuating Temps Stress Heating Systems Too
During a winter when temperatures can vary from the low 40’s to below zero, our heating systems get a real workout.  On the warmer days they cycle on and off less frequently, but on really cold days and nights they are forced to work harder to keep temperatures at the desired levels in your homes and businesses.

The large variance in outside temperatures can lead to more furnace failures. This is especially true on older units whose system components don’t handle the stress of being turned on and off so frequently.

Higher humidity caused by extremes of hot and cold temperatures, rain, sleet and snow will also put a burden on your heating system.

Call Mecko’s Heating & Cooling
If your heating system starts to make unusual noises, or is not able to warm your home sufficiently, give us a call.  We’ll be happy to check out your furnace or heat pump and do what we can to keep you warm this winter.