Autumn self-deception: why we endure until spring what can be cured in one day

      In autumn, people subtly rearrange their lifestyle: they move less, sleep worse, engage in self-medication more often, and postpone preventive visits to the doctor until spring. During this period, the number of complaints about constant fatigue, prolonged colds, and morning heaviness increases. However, as specialists note, most of these conditions are not due to climatic changes, but rather manageable factors — routine, physical activity, and attitude towards one's health.

      Seasonal risks are associated with habits that manifest en masse specifically in September and October. One of the most underestimated is going to work with a cold. Working with a temperature above 38°C hinders the body’s ability to cope with the infection and increases the likelihood of complications: from sinusitis and bronchitis to inflammation of the heart muscle. In this situation, antipyretics are not a pass to the office, but a signal that the body needs rest.

      The second most common mistake is taking antibiotics at the first signs of ARVI. Since respiratory infections are caused by viruses, antibacterial drugs do not work on them. The result is disrupted microbiota, side effects, and a contribution to bacterial resistance — a problem that can cause medication to fail at a truly critical moment.

      A similar situation exists with vitamins. High doses of ascorbic acid or fat-soluble vitamins without prior diagnosis do not create a "reserve" for winter. Excess vitamin C is excreted by the kidneys and increases the risk of oxalate stone formation, while vitamin D overdose, as doctors note, is becoming more common. The correct logic is: first tests, then supplements.

      Behavioral patterns are equally important. Many compensate for the short daylight hours with extra cups of coffee in the afternoon. This disrupts nighttime sleep, and chronic sleep deprivation reduces resistance to infections — the cycle closes. At the same time, walks are shortened: routes are reduced to "from the entrance to the car," and indoor air becomes overly dry due to radiators, weakening the nasal mucosa — the first line of defense against viruses.

      There are also less obvious seasonal risks. For example, the belief that ticks are only active in spring. Ixodes ticks have a second peak of activity in autumn: September and October often see a number of cases after bites that rival May. Therefore, country houses, mushrooms, or walks in the park still require attention, and any removed tick is recommended to be sent for laboratory testing.

      The most dangerous habit, according to doctors, appears to be the most harmless. In autumn, blood pressure objectively rises, and patients with chronic diseases often unilaterally cancel prescribed therapy during this period and postpone monitoring until spring. Missed examinations and adjusted treatments can lead to serious consequences.

      At the same time, the most common complaint in autumn is "I just have no strength." Here, doctors point out that behind this phrase often lie not melancholy or overwork, but iron deficiency, vitamin D deficiency, or thyroid dysfunction. These conditions have almost no other symptoms and are only visible in tests.

      To distinguish seasonal fatigue from clinical deficiency, a comprehensive examination of hundreds of indicators is not required. A basic check is sufficient: a complete blood count with a leukocyte formula, vitamin D (25-OH), ferritin to assess iron reserves, and TSH for thyroid function. As explained by the laboratory service INVITRO, these tests are enough to understand whether there is an objective reason for the autumn decline in strength, or if it is indeed a temporary condition that can be corrected with routine and rest.