The curse of the "cherry" winter: because of the thaw, people became sick more often
The mild European winter, which we used to only dream of in the crackling frosts, has played a cruel joke on Russians. An abnormal hybrid of spring and fall disposes to an increase in colds and cardiovascular diseases, as well as to the aggravation of mental illnesses. How do temperature swings, heat records and gloomy landscapes affect people's health - in the material "Izvestia".
Heart and blood vessels
Unusually warm winter is called cherry: this term originated in the media in 2019. Usually forecasters on the prognostic maps in bright pink color denote a warm anomaly when the temperature is slightly above the norm. And if the excess is 5-6 degrees or more, then brown-burgundy tones are used for the color forecast. Journalists drew a parallel with the cherry hue and awarded the anomaly with a poetic epithet.
However, "cherry" winters are far from romantic, as they cause concern because of potential health risks, says cardiologist Maria Dubinskaya of the Scandinavian Health Center.
- Significant fluctuations in temperature and atmospheric pressure, as well as increased humidity, affect the cardiovascular system. Such conditions can cause spikes in blood pressure, increased heart rate and increased strain on the heart. People with coronary artery disease are at particular risk," the cardiologist comments.
According to Dubinskaya, the probability of atherosclerotic plaques instability increases, which can lead to acute cardiovascular complications, including heart attacks and strokes.
- The elderly and patients with chronic diseases are particularly vulnerable in such conditions. And even healthy people sometimes experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain and dizziness," cautions Maria Dubinskaya.
Viruses and infections
Temperature fluctuations between -10 and +10 °C create favorable conditions for the spread of viruses. It is still a long way to +10, but Russia has already seen an increase in the incidence of respiratory viral infections. Exceeding the average Russian indicator is observed in 49 regions of the country. The situation is aggravated by the lack of sunshine and high air humidity.
- Increased humidity accelerates the transmission of infections by airborne droplets," says Maria Dubinskaya. - And if spring is long, the risk of prolonged colds will increase.
Constant temperature changes reduce the body's adaptive abilities, making it even more vulnerable to infections.
Nervous system
Weather swings often disrupt the stability of daily rhythms, causing headaches, apathy and sleep problems, emphasizes Dubinskaya. Such symptoms indicate malfunctions in the autonomic nervous system. In this case, it is important to seek help from a specialized specialist in a timely manner.
- During abnormal winter, there are also more frequent cases of magnetic storms, which can cause headaches, deterioration of well-being and sleep disturbances. Meteodependent people it is important to monitor the forecasts of magnetic activity and, if necessary, reduce the load on the body, avoid stress and provide adequate rest, - comments cardiologist.
Psyche
Radical climate change can directly affect mental well-being, says psychiatrist and sexologist Alexei Vilkov. Weather-dependent people or those who suffer from endogenous diseases, first of all develop depression or anxiety-depressive state. This is directly influenced by external factors - snowless streets, lack of sunshine and invigorating frost.
- The condition of such people is similar to aggravation, which just happens in the fall or spring period. Usually in winter, when there is snow and minus temperatures, remission occurs. But if before your eyes is such a gloomy "fall", little sun and light, then the mood decreases, apathy and anxiety appear. That is, there are all the signs of depression, - comments the psychiatrist.
According to the expert, in the easiest cases people show neuroses - stressogenic disorders, neurasthenia and moping. Someone is overcome by a slight melancholy. All these are variants of exhaustion of the nervous system.
Intimate sphere
Abnormal winter 2025 is more like fall, not spring, which, it would seem, is not far off. This negatively affects romantic feelings.
- In spring there is an increase in solar activity, which affects the work of neurotransmitters in the brain and, accordingly, to increase libido. And a gloomy gray picture, similar to late autumn, in some cases can lead to a decrease in sexual desire, - warns the expert.
The need for personal communication in the first place can fade in those who are prone to meteorological dependence.
- But, of course, we are not talking about everyone. There are people who by virtue of high temperament and good stress resistance are not subject to natural disasters. And they may not even notice such an undesirable change of weather, especially if they are in love, are in a relationship or are actively looking for a partner, - encourages sexologist.
How to stay healthy
Iosif Shubitidze, a cardiologist at the flagship medical center "Be Healthy", does not rule out that at the end of the abnormal winter the tired body will experience even more negative consequences. Hypovitaminosis, weakened immunity, lack of sunlight and endless waiting for spring can lead to sleep problems, decreased concentration and increased stress level. Premature warming and disrupted biorhythms can also aggravate allergic reactions.
In order to stay healthy in the conditions of weather changes and inconsistency with the usual biorhythm, Iosif Shubitidze advises to follow several recommendations.
- Maintain sufficient physical activity. Regular exercise not only improves health, but also raises your mood. Even a simple exercise or a walk in the fresh air can significantly improve your health," comments Shubitidze.
The doctor also recommends to follow the right diet: the menu should contain enough vitamins and minerals. It is necessary to eat more fruits, vegetables and foods rich in omega-3.
- And, of course, it is important to have a regular sleep and wakefulness schedule. Try to stick to a stable schedule - go to bed and get up at the same time. This will help the body to adjust to the necessary rhythm - advises cardiologist.
Psychiatrist advises to communicate more with pleasant people and accept the fact that all weather is good: in any season you can find its positive aspects. The main thing is to reconsider your attitude to the situation that causes anxiety and worry.
