Four Preventive Measures in Early Autumn
Autumn brings dryness and fluctuating temperatures; prevention of autumn dryness, bronchial asthma, rhinitis, and skin damage is crucial.
It has been some time since the beginning of autumn. According to seasonal divisions, autumn officially starts with the Start of Autumn solar term, when temperatures begin to drop and atmospheric humidity gradually decreases. Although Guangzhou’s current temperatures remain high, doctors warn that although seasonal changes are not yet obvious, people should still pay attention to clothing, diet, and daily routines proactively.
To help citizens safely enjoy autumn, our newspaper invited renowned traditional Chinese medicine expert Mr. Li Chengke and Deputy Chief Physician Yang Xiwen from the Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine at Guangzhou Red Cross Hospital to discuss preventive health tips for autumn wellness.
No.1. Prevent Autumn Dryness
With decreasing humidity in autumn, dryness becomes prevalent. The lung is most vulnerable to dryness, as traditional Chinese medicine views the lung as a delicate organ that prefers moisture and dislikes dryness. Dry pathogens easily invade the lung, depleting body fluids and causing symptoms like dry nose and throat, hoarse voice, dry cough, and constipation—collectively known as “autumn dryness syndrome.” Research indicates that autumn dryness easily damages lung qi, predisposing individuals to upper respiratory infections and acute bronchitis.
Therefore, to prevent dryness, it is advisable to consume foods that generate body fluids and moisten the lungs, such as sesame, pears, lotus root, bananas, apples, silver ear fungus, lilies, persimmons, olives, duck meat, pig lungs, turtles, soft-shelled turtles, honey, and vegetables. Avoid spicy, hot, fried, grilled, or smoked foods. Traditional Chinese medicine recommends clearing heat and moistening the lungs: use 30g ophiopogon tuber and 15g chrysanthemum, decoct in water and drink as tea.
No.2. Prevent Bronchial Asthma
Autumn weather fluctuates greatly, with significant differences between morning, midday, evening, and indoor/outdoor temperatures. The respiratory mucosa constantly experiences sudden temperature changes, weakening resistance and creating opportunities for pathogens. This makes bronchial asthma prone to recurrence. Additionally, allergens are more abundant in autumn air, contributing to bronchitis triggers. Therefore, avoid contact with allergens. Maintaining good emotional health enhances immunity and resistance. Improve living environment by ensuring fresh, well-ventilated air free from smoke and dust pollution.
No.3. Prevent Rhinitis
During the transition from summer to autumn, daytime temperatures are high while nighttime temperatures drop sharply, resulting in large diurnal temperature variations. Individuals who are already physically depleted and have allergic constitutions struggle to adapt to these rapid changes.
As autumn arrives, many people experience frequent sneezing, sometimes leading to headaches, chest pain, or abdominal pain—this is the hidden suffering of allergic rhinitis sufferers. At this time, special attention must be paid to staying warm, avoiding cold exposure, eliminating major triggers, maintaining a light diet, and minimizing contact with allergens.
No.4. Prevent Skin Damage
Autumn accelerates skin moisture evaporation. Exposed skin becomes rough and loses elasticity, potentially developing cracks. Therefore, avoid alkaline soaps and cleansers. Pay attention to daily skin care. Consuming foods such as loaches, eel, white duck meat, peanuts, pears, red dates, lotus seeds, grapes, sugarcane, sesame, walnuts, honey, silver ear fungus, and pears can effectively moisturize the skin and improve complexion.