Can cold cause a cold? The doctor answered “X”

Headache, stuffy nose, sneezing, low-grade fever…do these symptoms sound familiar? Probably a cold. This is a viral infection of the nose and throat. “What we call a cold is the result of the entry of an infectious agent, which in most cases is a virus,” the doctor explains. Antelm Pujol.

Symptoms of the common cold usually appear one to three days after exposure to the virus that causes the cold. Signs and symptoms may vary from person to person and include the following: stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, cough, and nasal congestion.

The spread of this infection occurs primarily through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces, but aside from these factors, does a cold really increase the likelihood of catching a cold? “Brief, brief, probably yes,” the expert said.

“Exposure to cold stresses your immune system”

As the doctor explains on his social network “X” (formerly Twitter), here is a study by researchers Murzocu et al. reviewed the scientific evidence on this topic in 2007, noting that periods of hypothermia increase the incidence of respiratory tract infections, in addition to increased incidence of death from cardiovascular origin and respiratory tract infections due to leukopenia and decreased cytokines. Production.

this pathophysiological mechanism Regarding these facts, on the one hand, a decrease in the temperature of the upper respiratory tract impairs local defenses, and on the other hand, a decrease in temperature causes vasoconstriction, making it difficult for white blood cells to pass. Arrive at different locations.

Another explanation that justifies this increase in infections is that those of us who are colder spend more time indoors during the winter. enclosed spacemaking us more likely to share air and microbes with other people.

There is also an argument to be made that when it is cold we turn on the heating which causes the environment to dry out and therefore, Reduce mucosal layer, Responsible for protecting us by creating a Barrier against microorganisms.

in conclusion

“Exposure to cold stresses your immune system. Therefore, it puts you in a state where you are more susceptible to infection,” he concluded. Antelm Pujol.

What can we do to protect ourselves from these viruses?Your best bet is to forget the false myths and understand that the best way to treat a cold is to stop it Our immune system works on its own

. Of course, it is recommended to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and to turn off the heat to reduce the dryness of the environment, even if we are cold.