So, it’s summer and just when you’re ready for some fun in that beautiful weather, out of nowhere comes the dreaded summer cold. What is the summer cold and is it that different from a winter cold?
What makes summer colds different?
First, there are over 200 viruses that can cause colds, but some of these, like rhinoviruses (which are the most common cause of colds), tend to peak in the autumn, whereas enteroviruses are more common in the summer. Enterovirus infections can cause more severe symptoms, and unusual symptoms such as rashes.
Despite the myth that summer colds are caused by enteroviruses, this family of viruses can cause many different ailments, but remains a rare cause of summer colds themselves.
And what about the idea that cold weather in the winter predisposes us to colds? We used to think this was a myth, but recent studies have shown that cold air might actually reduce the immunity of cells in our nasal passages, allowing viruses to replicate faster.
This may be one of the reasons that colds are more common in the winter months.
And how should you treat that summer cold?
Unfortunately, like winter colds, there really aren’t any medications that cure these colds. All you can do is treat the symptoms while you’re waiting for your immune system to do its work. This means decongestants for your nose, acetaminophen or anti-inflammatories for fever and body aches, and dextromethorphan syrups for severe cough. Unfortunately, antibiotics will not help with the common cold.
At the end of the day, the best treatment is prevention. And whether it’s summer or winter, wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer to avoid catching the infection. We also know that lack of sleep and mental stress predispose your body to catching colds, and exercise can protect you.
So, this summer, make sure to get good sleep, minimize stress, and exercise regularly to fend off the common cold.
We at On Call Medical Clinic are here 7 days a week if you need our help. We treat the common cold daily with the numerous patients we see. We assure you that you will be in good hands when you visit us, we will do everything possible to help relief those summer cold symptoms. Our on premise laboratory helps us to obtain results from your blood work quickly. Please visit our website at www.oncallclinic.com to discover all the services we offer here at our clinic.