Dr. McDonough: Changing Weather Can Affect Your Health, But Not How You Might Think
By Dr. Brian McDonough
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - The weather in our area is changing, with autumn-like temperatures in the forecast all this week. This time of year, it's one of the most common questions I get in the office: "the weather's changing and I don't feel well. Is that a result of the weather?" In a way it is and in a way it isn't.
The truth of the matter is this: you are not going to get a viral infection or a bacterial infection because of weather changes. But, weather can have an influence. It can influence your immune system.
In addition, depending on whether it's rainy or cold, staying indoors and being around other people with virtual infections or bacterial infections can increase the risk of spread.
Finally, barometric pressure can have an impact, in one of two ways: it can stimulate migraine headaches in people who are prone and it can have an impact on people feeling achy, tight or stiff.
