Against the backdrop of autumn outbreaks of acute respiratory viral infections, inflammatory processes in the body are activated, which can aggravate chronic inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, gastroenterologist Ekaterina Kashukh, an expert at the Hemotest Laboratory, warned in an interview with RT.
“There is data confirming the seasonal activity of the immune system. For example, studies have shown that against the background of autumn outbreaks of acute respiratory viral infections, inflammatory processes in the body are activated, which can aggravate chronic inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome). With viral infections, the permeability of the intestinal wall increases, which can stimulate inflammation and exacerbate existing diseases,” the RT interlocutor emphasized.
According to her, in the fall, people are more likely to experience stress due to changing weather conditions, the start of the school year, and adaptation after the end of the holiday season.
“In turn, stress and depression contribute to the aggravation of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. The state of the gastrointestinal tract can also be affected by food habits that change from season to season. When the heat subsides, people often prefer heavy food – rich hot soups, fatty main courses instead of light salads, which are a pleasant substitute for meals in the heat. The amount of vegetables and fruits decreases, which also negatively affects the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and metabolism,” the doctor explained.
In addition, as Kashukh added, people move less when the cold weather sets in, including choosing transport instead of walking.
“This also has a negative impact on the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, as intestinal peristalsis worsens and the risk of constipation increases. It is generally accepted that peptic ulcers worsen in the fall. However, statistically this is not entirely true: studies show that the disease is active throughout the year, and some data indicate that there are fewer exacerbations in the fall than in winter or spring,” the specialist concluded.
Earlier, general practitioner Marina Togushova told RT that the autumn period is characterized by changing weather conditions: cold air and high humidity create a favorable environment for viruses.
