Pharyngitis: why you need to dress in layers

Sore throat, a disorder almost always without consequences, is however really annoying. To try to avoid it, in practice, just adopt the “onion” style.

Sore throat, a disorder almost always without consequences, is however really annoying. To try to avoid it, in practice, just adopt the “onion” style.

At least once a year, especially during the cold season, Italians run to the doctor to treat the so-called seasonal ailments.

Among the most irritating there is undoubtedly pharyngitis , i.e. sore throat, which we can however learn to prevent. Even with a simple trick in layering clothes.

Although the main cause of throat inflammation are viruses and bacteria , excessive and sudden changes in temperature can contribute to the onset of the disorder.

In fact, sudden changes in temperature reduce the efficiency of the defenses of the airways against microorganisms.

The cells of the respiratory mucosa have cilia which, with their movement, push the thin layer of mucus which is continuously secreted to trap the foreign particles penetrated with the inspired air.

However, this mechanism that serves to keep the respiratory tract clean is influenced by sudden changes in temperature or humidity.

Thus, for example, a cold shock compromises the functioning of the cells which are no longer able to seize and expel the inhaled germs.

In and out the right way

To avoid harmful sudden heating and cooling, the most useful advice is to follow the “onion rule”, i.e. dress in layers.

This strategy will allow us to be well covered to face the harsh external temperatures but also to easily get rid of sweaters & Co., depending on the environment we will find indoors, avoiding being too hot.

The layers, therefore, help. Provided they are superimposed in the correct order: clothing in contact with the skin to regulate perspiration; the middle layer must keep the body temperature constant; the latter must protect against atmospheric agents (wind, rain, snow).

Check the swings in three moves

First layer. It is the one in direct contact with the skin and, therefore, the laundry. It must be snug but not restrictive.

The most suitable fabrics are silk and cotton, or materials in stretch micro polyester, which help regulate perspiration by promoting the transport of sweat to the outside.

Perspiration, in this layer, is essential because it keeps the body temperature constant, preventing the body from cooling down.

Second layer. Worn over underwear, it has the fundamental task of protecting from the cold. In practice, shirts, sweaters and cardigans must form a thermal protective shield, retaining heat between the first and third layers of clothing.

Naturally, the shield can only be made up of soft and warm fabrics, such as wool, fleece or cashmere.

Third layer. Raincoats, coats, trench coats, down jackets: it’s the shell of our layers, the one that keeps the body protected from atmospheric events and temperature changes, and protects the underlying layers, preventing heat from dispersing outside.

The last layer must be as breathable as the other two to allow perspiration to escape. Finally, never forget scarves, gloves and hats.