As the cooler months settle in, certain seasonal health issues become more common — and more serious if left unchecked. From respiratory illnesses to chronic condition flare-ups, fall and winter are prime times to check in with your primary care provider.
At Prima Medicine in Fairfax, South Riding, Merrified, and Tysons, our team is here to help you stay well year-round. With same-day availability and a compassionate approach, we tailor our treatments to your needs — whether you’re managing ongoing health problems or just trying to stay ahead of the flu.
Seasonal Health Issues to Watch For
Several ailments can affect you and your loved ones as the seasons shift. Here are some of the most important ones to be aware of.
Cold, Flu, and COVID-19 Protection
Late fall and winter are peak times for respiratory viruses, including the flu, RSV, and COVID-19. Vaccination remains one of the best tools to reduce your risk of severe illness. Ask your doctor if you’re due for your annual flu shot, COVID boosters, or other recommended vaccines.
Seasonal Depression (SAD)
Shorter days and less sunlight can trigger symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in many people. If you start experiencing increased fatigue, low mood, or lack of motivation, talk with your doctor. Solutions may include light therapy, lifestyle adjustments, or temporary medication.
Asthma and Respiratory Flare-Ups
Cold, dry air can aggravate asthma, bronchitis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). If you rely on an inhaler or breathing treatments, fall is a smart time to review your action plan, refill prescriptions, and schedule lung function testing if needed.
Simple Steps to Support Your Immune System
Colder months mean more time indoors — and more exposure to viruses. Prioritize your immune health by reviewing your current medications, nutrition, and chronic conditions. Your doctor may recommend supplements or lab work to check for deficiencies, especially in vitamin D.
Stay Well This Cold Season With Prima Medicine
Fall and winter bring unique health challenges, but you don’t have to face them alone. The dedicated team at Prima Medicine is here to keep you ahead of seasonal illness and help you feel your best.
Contact our office today at (703) 870-3750 or schedule an appointment online at our Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, or Tysons location. We offer same-day visits and weekend hours to make quality care convenient all year.
Seasonal Health and Primary Care FAQ – Prima Medicine (Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, Tysons)
During the cooler months, respiratory illnesses like cold, flu, COVID-19, and RSV become more frequent. You may also see flare-ups in asthma, allergies, and chronic conditions such as COPD or sinus infections. At Prima Medicine, our primary care providers in Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, and Tysons help patients prepare for these seasonal risks through preventive check-ups, vaccinations, and wellness plans. The best protection is staying up to date on vaccines and practicing good hygiene. Prima Medicine offers flu shots, COVID-19 boosters, and RSV vaccines to reduce your risk of severe illness. Our providers also review your overall immune health and create personalized prevention strategies, especially for those with chronic conditions or older adults. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) often appears as fatigue, mood changes, or loss of motivation in the darker months. At Prima Medicine, your provider can evaluate your symptoms and suggest treatments such as light therapy, nutritional support, counseling referrals, or medication. We take a holistic approach that supports both mental and physical health throughout winter. Cold, dry air can tighten airways and trigger flare-ups in asthma, bronchitis, or COPD. Prima Medicine helps patients stay ahead of breathing difficulties by reviewing inhaler techniques, updating prescriptions, and performing lung function testing when needed. Early intervention keeps your lungs healthy all season. Supporting your immune system starts with proper nutrition, hydration, sleep, and stress management. Prima Medicine providers may also recommend vitamin D, zinc, or multivitamin supplements and can run lab tests to check for deficiencies. Routine wellness visits are the best time to make sure your immune system is ready for winter. We recommend scheduling a visit in early fall, before flu season peaks. This allows your provider to review your health status, update vaccines, and discuss preventive strategies tailored to you. Prima Medicine offers same-day appointments and weekend hours at all four Northern Virginia locations for your convenience. You can book online anytime at PrimaMedicine.com or call (703) 870-3750. Our offices in Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, and Tysons provide same-day and weekend availability, so you can get care when you need it most. Whether you’re managing chronic conditions or staying ahead of seasonal illness, our compassionate team is here to help you stay well year-round. At Prima Medicine, patients choose us for our personalized, preventive approach and commitment to accessible, high-quality care. With a team of board-certified providers, modern clinics, and multiple Northern Virginia locations, we make it easy to stay healthy in every season. We believe in treating the whole person — not just the symptoms — so you can thrive through fall, winter, and beyond. |
