29.01.2026 20:59
Chest Diseases Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Özcan Oğurlu stated that there is a significant increase in respiratory diseases such as colds, flu, bronchitis, and pneumonia during the winter months, and emphasized that the lack of clear symptoms can delay diagnosis. Oğurlu mentioned that coughs that begin during the cold weather should be taken seriously, saying, "A cough lasting longer than three weeks may be a sign of an underlying different disease."
Chest Diseases Specialist Uzm. Dr. Özcan Oğurlu, noted that diseases such as the common cold, flu, bronchitis, and pneumonia are more frequently observed during the winter months, emphasizing that the lack of clear symptoms can delay diagnosis and providing information on ways to prevent these illnesses.
"FLU IS THE MOST COMMON AND CONTAGIOUS INFECTION IN WINTER MONTHS"
Stating that cold weather conditions allow some viruses to survive longer in environmental conditions, Chest Diseases Specialist Uzm. Dr. Özcan Oğurlu said, "Low temperatures weaken the protective mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier for viruses to adhere to the body. With the drying of the nasal mucosa, defense mechanisms weaken, increasing the risk of infection."
Uzm. Dr. Oğurlu stated that the flu is a highly contagious infection caused by the influenza virus that affects the nose, throat, and lungs, saying, "A significant increase in the number of cases is observed from October to March. The flu, which presents with symptoms such as fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and cough, can be managed more lightly with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment."
"COMMON COLD AND RHINITIS CAN START MILDLY BUT BECOME SEVERE"
Expressing that the common cold and rhinitis are among the frequently encountered infections in winter months, Uzm. Dr. Oğurlu said, "Many different viruses cause these diseases, with rhinoviruses being the most commonly seen. Nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, and headache are among the most common symptoms."
"COVID-19 CAN BE CONFUSED WITH OTHER RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS"
Reminding that COVID-19, which everyone became familiar with during the pandemic, is also a contagious infection affecting the respiratory tract and lungs, Uzm. Dr. Özcan Oğurlu stated, "The likelihood of it being seen alongside other respiratory infections increases during the winter months. It is very important to make a differential diagnosis due to similar symptoms."
"PNEUMONIA AND BRONCHITIS CAN POSE A LIFE THREAT"
Stating that pneumonia develops as a result of inflammation of lung tissue, Oğurlu said, "The disease can occur due to bacterial or viral agents. Symptoms such as cough, phlegm, shortness of breath, and high fever should be taken seriously. Bronchitis develops with inflammation of the airways, and cough is particularly prominent."
"VACCINES PROVIDE THE STRONGEST PROTECTION AGAINST WINTER INFECTIONS"
Expressing that vaccination is one of the most effective methods of protection against respiratory infections seen in winter months, Uzm. Dr. Özcan Oğurlu stated, "The flu vaccine should definitely be administered every autumn, especially for older individuals and those with chronic diseases. Pneumonia vaccines also provide significant protection and can create long-term immunity depending on the type of vaccine."
"SIMPLE DAILY PRECAUTIONS STRENGTHEN IMMUNITY"
Stating that maintaining body temperature in cold weather is important for reducing the risk of infection, Oğurlu said, "Wearing gloves, hats, and scarves prevents cold and helps warm the inhaled air. Regular hand washing and increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables significantly support the immune system."
"SMOKING AND CLOSED ENVIRONMENTS INCREASE INFECTION RISK"
Stating that smoking irritates the respiratory tract and paves the way for infections, Uzm. Dr. Özcan Oğurlu said, "Quitting smoking improves respiratory functions and strengthens the immune system. During the pandemic, the use of masks significantly reduced respiratory infections. In winter months, wearing masks in crowded environments serves a protective role."
"COUGH LASTING MORE THAN THREE WEEKS SHOULD BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY"
Stating that a cough starting in winter months should definitely be taken seriously, Chest Diseases Specialist Uzm. Dr. Özcan Oğurlu said, "A cough lasting longer than three weeks may indicate an underlying different disease. In this case, a doctor should be consulted. Complaints after the flu may persist, and in some cases, the flu virus can lead to pneumonia. Early consultation with a physician for such symptoms significantly facilitates the diagnosis and treatment process."