Spring Fever


Spring fever cannot be classified as a diagnosed illness rather it is a phenomenon that seems to be caused by a change in the seasons. People usually experience symptoms ranging from mid-March to mid- April. The most common symptoms are weariness even with enough sleep, sensitivity to changes in the weather, dizziness, irritability, headaches, and sometimes even painful joints.

That reputed and seemingly infectious malady, Spring fever, that strikes when the days lengthen and temperatures begin to climb, has been blamed for feverish bouts of house-cleaning, restless behavior at work, distraction in meetings and love struck dazes.Some scientists think spring fever is more than just a colloquialism — they think it’s a constellation of symptoms brought about by hormonal changes in the body.In winter, the body secretes high levels of melatonin, a hormone that governs sleep-wake cycles. Come spring, the increasing amount of daylight is registered by light-sensitive tissue in the eye, which signals the brain to stop secreting so much melatonin. As the hormone’s levels drop off, greater wakefulness results.

On the other hand, levels of another chemical calledserotonin rise in spring. This mood-elevating neurotransmitter may be at the root of the giddiness, energy boost and enthusiasm that characterize spring fever.Contrary to the popular belief, spring fever is not merely a state of mind, but a drastic adjustment in our internal composition. It’s more of a physical process that occurs due to hormone and chemical changes in our body because of seasonal changes.

Statistics reveal that nearly half of the citizens living in northern latitudes of Canada and United States experience intense spring fever symptoms.That being said, there is a darker side to spring fever which often goes unnoticed. While the desire for sex, socialization and overall well-being would be on the high, some people might end up getting bored very easily performing routine tasks.

In some cases, individuals have also complained about excess fatigue and body aches due to increase in activities. Overflow of energy often compels an individual to work harder. As a matter of fact, recent studies has unleashed the fact that school going kids do not report to school for a few days at the onset of spring because of the uncontrollable feeling to venture outside.

Remember, outburst of energy can potentially backfire. There are times when not only kids but also adults display reckless behavior. Recent studies have recorded an increase in accidents during the spring season. Also, reports of depression and suicide are reported to be at its peak during this season. There is no direct relationship that can be built up between spring and these fatal incidents.

In conclusion, while spring is usually associated with an increase in energy level and positive feelings, it might lead to uncomfortable situations as well, especially if emotions or feelings run out of control. However, if one is able to exercise physiological control, then one doesn’t have to worry a bit about spring fever. Remember, spring is a short lived season. Enjoy it to the maximum.