Understanding what makes you more susceptible to upper respiratory infections helps you take preventive measures and recognize when you’re at higher risk. After decades of treating URIs, I’ve identified key factors that consistently increase infection likelihood.
Age-related vulnerability: Young children (under 6) and older adults (over 65) have higher URI susceptibility. Children’s immune systems are still developing and they have frequent close contact with other children. Older adults may have weakened immune responses and underlying health conditions that increase risk.Â
Seasonal and environmental factors: Cold, dry weather increases URI risk by drying nasal passages, which reduces their ability to trap and clear viruses. Indoor heating creates dry air that further compromises nasal defenses.
Crowded environments like schools, offices, daycare centers, and public transportation facilitate virus transmission through close contact and shared surfaces.
Poor air quality from pollution, smoke, or allergens irritates respiratory tissues, making them more vulnerable to viral infection.
Lifestyle factors that increase risk:
Insufficient sleep significantly weakens immune function. People getting less than 7 hours nightly have three times higher URI risk than those getting 8+ hours.
Chronic stress suppresses immune system function, making you more susceptible to viral infections and slowing recovery.
Poor nutrition lacking in vitamins C, D, and zinc can compromise immune responses to respiratory viruses.
Smoking or vaping damages respiratory tract defenses and significantly increases URI frequency and severity.
Excessive alcohol consumption impairs immune function and respiratory tract clearance mechanisms.
Medical conditions that increase susceptibility:
- Asthma or chronic lung diseases
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Immunocompromising conditions or medications
- Allergies (especially during active flare-ups)
Hygiene and behavioral factors:
- Frequent face-touching with unwashed hands
- Poor hand hygiene practices
- Sharing personal items with sick individuals
- Not covering coughs and sneezes properly
Occupational risks: Healthcare workers, teachers, and childcare providers have increased exposure to respiratory viruses through their work environments.
Understanding these risk factors allows you to take targeted preventive measures and recognize when you might need earlier intervention for URI symptoms.
