Who hasn’t caught a cold in summer?Although it is not usual Many people suffer from constipation this time of year. Although there are no specific figures, “it may be the impact of the epidemic, the removal of masks and the increase in the flow of people” Conducive to a certain increase in the number of cold cases in summerJosé Miguel Rodríguez González-Moro, Head of the Pulmonology Unit at the Alcalá de Henares University Hospital in Madrid, explained to CuídatePlus.
As experts commented, It is true that “the most likely time to catch a cold is autumn and winter, because the virus survives better at low temperatures” And because the closed, air-conditioned environment favors human-to-human transmission”. However, It is also common to catch a cold due to temperature changes in summer.During these days, “sudden changes in temperature associated with improper use of air conditioning or nighttime falls are the main risk factors for the development of colds, and Viruses (rhinovirus family) are the main causative agents of these diseases” said the expert.
from hot to cold and vice versa,”The body is on the defensive, which may irritate the nasal mucosa and other parts of the respiratory systemwhich facilitates the entry of rhinoviruses.”
But not only that. As shown in the “Air Conditioning Cool and DryEven temperatures below 18 degrees interfere with natural defense mechanisms and therefore favor the activity of the virus”. In fact, according to the Spanish Society of Respiratory and Thoracic Surgery, “Up to 20% of catarrh, laryngitis, pharyngitis or bronchitis occur in summer and are caused by improper use of air conditioning“.
On the other hand, it is important to remember that, in addition to rhinoviruses, “Covid19 continues to spread in all its variantsin many cases, manifests as catarrhal symptoms.
Summer cold symptoms and treatment
As for the symptoms of summer colds, experts recall that they are basically rhinology: “Irritation, sneezing, runny nose, irritating dry cough and sore throat“. As he points out, “it is important to distinguish it from possible influenza, which is accompanied by a greater effect of fever and general state (headache, muscle aches, fatigue…)” .
As Separ experts point out, “Most air-conditioning-related colds don’t usually cause a fever”thus, “As a general rule, for these nasal or pharyngeal processes Antibiotics should not be taken, Because these are often the cases of viral origin.”
Therefore, as Rodriguez Gonzalez-Moro explained, Basic treatment is “relative rest, drinking plenty of fluids (rehydration), and taking paracetamol-type pain relievers if you feel unwell”. Experts also recommend “avoiding nasal sprays containing vasoconstrictors and/or corticosteroids if possible, and if using, use them only for a few days.”
How long does a cold last?
A cold is usually a minor ailment, which is why generally “there’s no need to see a doctor because it goes away 3 or 5 days after the first symptoms,” Rodriguez Gonzalez-Mo Rodríguez González-Moro reported. despite this, In some cases, it is important to see a doctor For example, “people with a chronic medical condition that may worsen, or a cold that may lead to the development of pneumonia.”Other reasons for consultation include “High fever, chest pain, shortness of breath or severe collapse.”
Beware of complications
As experts say, colds are a common and banal health problem, but in some cases, symptoms can complicate the underlying problem. This is so because “the presence of respiratory viruses may favor the emergence of bacterial complications, such as sinusitis, bronchitis, and even pneumonia,” he noted.that’s why It is important to pay special attention to the most vulnerable patients “Patients with respiratory disease (asthma, COPD), metabolic disease (diabetes, obesity), heart disease, tumors, immunosuppression, are at higher risk of complications.” It is important to point out”These complications are more common in flu cases than in common cold casesthough that may be the case.
How to prevent colds in summer?
Regarding preventive measures, the first suggestion of the chief of the respiratory department is to “make good use of air conditioners to keep the indoor and outdoor temperatures low.” The temperature difference should not exceed 8-10 degrees, and the temperature of the air conditioner should not be lower than 23 degrees.”
It also advises “to avoid direct exposure to air jets and to ensure the cleanliness of the equipment.” On the other hand, it is also important to “maintain sufficient humidity in the room and ensure regular renewal of air and air.” Don’t forget to wear warm clothing on summer nights or in public places such as cinemas, restaurants or transport“.
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