Why do we catch colds so often in the spring?

By the end of winter, the immunity of inhabitants of northern latitudes generally decreases. A tired and weakened body is especially vulnerable to viruses, while spring weather and air temperatures from minus 26.6 °F to plus 127.4 °F are ideal for their activity. Additionally, with warmer weather, we all rush to get rid of annoying hats and jackets, which also makes it easier for viruses to attack.

When do symptoms appear?

The disease manifests itself 1–3 days after infection. Colds usually last 7–10 days. At first, the symptoms are acute: pain in the body including in the throat, headaches, cough, runny nose, and sneezing.

What do doctors advise for prevention?

• Wash your hands and maintain social distancing. Yes, these rules apply to not only COVID-19 but also seasonal SARS.
• Balance work, sleep, and rest. Try to get enough sleep, do not overwork, and manage stress. This will help you avoid getting sick.
• When we are in a room with other people, we are more likely to be exposed to germs. Maintain a comfortable temperature environment, ventilate the air and monitor your health.
• People who exercise regularly have a lower risk of contracting viral infections because physical activity strengthens the immune system. Even a small but regular load will do.

What do you do if you have a high temperature?

Call a doctor immediately. The virus spreads rapidly, so don't delay treatment. Urgently act in the first hours of the illness, as the risk of complications is too great. In some cases, the symptoms may overlap with those of the flu or COVID-19. To rule out a more serious illness, contact a specialist who will examine you and prescribe adequate treatment.

Do not self-medicate. The fact that you repeatedly have colds does not make you a doctor. Each course of the disease has its own nuances, and appropriate treatment may vary. It is especially dangerous to self-prescribe antibiotics. First, they are powerless against viruses, and second, they create an additional burden on the body that complicates the course of the disease.

Drink plenty of liquids. Avoid sugary or milky drinks, especially if you have a lot of mucus, as this can make the situation worse. Drink water, warm herbal teas, or fruit teas instead. Herbal infusions with sage, ginger, chamomile, licorice root, or green tea can help relieve pain, nose or throat problems. Black tea with the addition of turmeric is good as an anti-inflammatory.

Keep the room humid. Avoid drying out mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. To do this, maintain humidity at 40–60 %, which is optimal. A room humidifier can help with this. Be sure to ventilate the room you are in. Studies show that people in poorly ventilated rooms are more likely to catch colds, and good air circulation helps fight viruses.

Take your time to get back to business. Rest and do not cut your sick leave short. Do not rush back to school or work if you are not completely healthy. Your immunity is especially vulnerable at this time, and work can wait a bit longer.

Enjoy the spring vibes. A positive attitude can benefit your physical health. People who are optimistic have an easier time tolerating illness and recovering faster.

08 April 2021