GP says winter cough 'could be sign of serious illness'

Throughout winter, with temperatures at their lowest, a range of illnesses can be easily mistaken for symptoms related to the weather, including worsened moods and trouble breathing.

That's according to Dr Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy. He has explored this in full detail, revealing the illnesses often mistaken for symptoms caused by cold weather.

Six illnesses mistaken for cold weather effects

Dr Grant said: “During the colder months of the year, a range of illnesses and conditions can leave people feeling under the weather. However, the drastic change in weather conditions can leave people mistaking their illnesses for natural responses to the cold. Let’s take a look at these in further detail."

Bronchitis

Dr Grant said: “Firstly, bronchitis, a respiratory infection caused by airway inflammation, can have overlapping symptoms with the cold weather. Cold air itself can irritate the airways, leading to coughing and increased mucus production as a natural defence. For this reason, the persistent cough and mucus build-up characteristic of bronchitis may be mistaken for a normal winter reaction to chilly temperatures.

“However, if individuals experience chest congestion, wheezing or shortness of breath, it could be a sign of this respiratory infection. The condition can range in severity, with acute and chronic bronchitis offering varying intensity of symptoms - despite this if symptoms persist for more than a few days, it’s best to seek tailored advice and treatment from a GP."

Pneumonia

Dr Grant said: “Pneumonia is another common illness that is often mistaken for winter weather symptoms. Coughing, cold chills and shortness of breath can all be overlapping symptoms of the weather and this harmful illness.

“Untreated pneumonia can prove extremely risky to health - particularly towards older individuals and those with a compromised immune system. As a result, people suffering from pneumonia should seek antibiotic treatment from their GP."

Sinus infections

Dr Grant said: “Next, sinus infections can cause nasal blockages and runny noses - two extremely common symptoms of the body reacting to cold weather. However, this infection - caused by fluid build-up in the face’s air pockets - also causes a fever and intense headaches. Examining discharge from the nose can also help spot a sinus infection as it’s typically thicker in appearance.

“Treatments such as Sudafed Sinus-Ease 0.1% Nasal Spray can prove incredibly effective at targeting congestion and pressure caused by sinusitis. This spray is fast-acting and provides up to 10 hours of relief from symptoms, it’s available over the counter and works by constricting the blood vessels in the nasal passages."

Asthma

Dr Grant said: "In cold winter weather, the dry air can cause our airways to narrow, leading to bouts of coughing, wheezing, and general difficulty breathing. These are hallmark symptoms of asthma, yet they’re often mistaken for the body’s natural response to cold conditions. This overlap in symptoms can make it challenging to identify asthma flare-ups versus typical winter reactions, especially as temperatures drop.

“Using simple tests, a doctor can diagnose asthma and advise on potential treatment options such as inhalers to help support people with their respiratory function over the colder period."

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Dr Grant said: “The harsher weather and reduced sunlight exposure can have a drastic effect on people’s moods. If someone isn’t aware of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), they may have trouble uncovering why they feel lower or less motivated.

“To avoid SAD, it’s important to make the most of the daylight we do have and practise good habits such as mindfulness and the maintenance of a well-balanced and healthy diet, as this can help regulate moods."

Raynaud’s Disease

Dr Grant said: “Finally, Raynaud’s can cause hands and joints to feel tingly and change in colour - which many people quickly put down to the change in temperature, with cold weather typically having a similar effect. However, if symptoms worsen or persist, the chances are they could be suffering from Raynaud’s Disease.

“It’s important to avoid sudden changes in temperatures and cold surfaces while prioritising warm clothing if an individual is suffering from Raynaud’s. A GP can provide more tailored advice and recommend potential medications to minimise symptoms.

“Overall, this winter, it’s vitally important to monitor symptoms when people believe they’re suffering from a harmful illness. Often, there are various indicators that the illness could be more serious or require medical attention.”

Dr Grant qualified as a doctor in Bristol in 1985. He has wide clinical experience as a GP in and around Bristol. Donald is the senior clinician at The Independent Pharmacy and is responsible for clinically overseeing our online pharmacy service.