Everyone experiences periods of illness, whether it’s a common cold or a more severe flu, but some individuals appear to be more prone to feeling unwell than others. Various infectious diseases caused by bacteria and viruses, as well as non-infectious conditions related to lifestyle, environment, and genetics, contribute to illnesses.
A UK-based physician, Dr. Sami, has highlighted five significant reasons why people often fall ill. Dr. Sami, a qualified medical expert who shares health-related content, expert advice, and tips on platforms like TikTok, recently discussed the causes of frequent feelings of being run down and provided suggestions for addressing them.
The doctor emphasized, “Do you find yourself getting sick more frequently than the average person? It’s not just a matter of bad luck. Here are the top five reasons why people commonly experience illness.”
Dr. Sami referenced studies indicating that inadequate sleep, specifically less than seven hours per night, can significantly increase the likelihood of catching colds and other viral infections. He stressed the importance of sleep for the immune system’s functionality.
According to the Mayo Clinic, individuals who don’t get sufficient quality sleep are more susceptible to falling ill after exposure to viruses like the common cold, and lack of sleep can impact recovery time if illness occurs.
Moving on, Dr. Sami discussed the impact of chronic stress on health, noting that elevated cortisol levels from stress can suppress white blood cells responsible for fighting infections. Chronic stress can compromise the immune system’s ability to combat viruses like the common cold and cold sores.
In terms of nutrition, many individuals strive to maintain a healthy diet, but Dr. Sami pointed out that a significant portion of the population fails to consume the recommended five daily servings of fruits and vegetables. He highlighted the importance of nutrients like vitamin C and zinc for immune system support.
Dr. Sami also emphasized the role of sunlight exposure in maintaining a robust immune system, as vitamin D is crucial for immune function.
Certain environments, such as healthcare settings, educational institutions, childcare facilities, or frequent public transportation usage, pose a higher risk of illness due to increased exposure to pathogens, as explained by the medical professional.
The doctor advised practicing good hygiene habits, such as regular handwashing and cleaning frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs and handrails, to reduce the risk of infection.
Lastly, Dr. Sami mentioned that underlying health conditions such as anaemia, thyroid disorders, or gastrointestinal and liver issues can contribute to feelings of illness. Seeking medical advice from a GP is recommended for individuals suspecting they may have these conditions.