Experts Urge Nigerians Experiencing Persistent Cough, Cold to Reduce Stress

Medical experts and public health officials are urging Nigerians experiencing persistent coughs and colds to focus on managing their stress levels, linking the unusual duration of these symptoms to a weakened immune system caused by socioeconomic pressures.

In a recent public health advisory, doctors noted an increase in patients presenting with flu-like symptoms that are not responding to conventional treatment. According to Dr. Tunji Akintade, a Lagos-based medical practitioner, the primary culprit is the elevated stress levels across the country.

“When you are under chronic stress, your body releases a hormone called cortisol, which can significantly suppress your immune system,” Dr. Akintade explained. “This makes you more vulnerable to infections and prevents your body from effectively fighting off common viruses, leading to a prolonged cough or cold that just won’t go away.”

The advisory highlights that these “unusual” symptoms are often accompanied by other signs of stress, such as fatigue, persistent headaches, and muscle aches. The experts advise a multi-pronged approach to recovery. Beyond seeking medical attention for the symptoms, they emphasize the importance of tackling the root cause. This includes a number of key recommendations:

• Prioritizing adequate sleep to allow the body to rest and repair.
• Maintaining a balanced diet rich in immune-boosting nutrients.
• Engaging in regular physical exercise to help reduce cortisol levels.
• Practicing mindfulness or other relaxation techniques to calm the mind and body.

The health warnings come against a backdrop of ongoing economic challenges in Nigeria, including soaring inflation and the rising cost of living, which have contributed to widespread psychological strain on the populace.