Why Summer Colds Are Special.

Many people might find it strange to catch a cold in the summer, but it is possible to get a summer cold. There is a saying, "Even dogs don't catch summer colds," but this is not true. Summer colds can occur due to temperature changes and the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures. They can often be more complex and harder to recover from than winter colds. In this post, we will explore the causes and symptoms of summer and winter colds, and how to prevent summer colds.

 

Summer and winter colds differ in their causative viruses and symptoms, with summer colds often including digestive symptoms and having a longer recovery period.

 

Differences in Causes of Summer and Winter Colds

Summer Colds

 

• Main Cause: Summer colds are primarily caused by enteroviruses, which are more active in warm weather.
• Environment: The main causes include sudden temperature changes due to indoor and outdoor temperature differences and air conditioning. These factors weaken the immune system, making it easier to catch a cold.

 

Winter Colds

 

• Main Cause: Winter colds are mainly caused by rhinoviruses, which are more active in cold weather.
• Environment: Key factors include indoor heating and cold outdoor temperatures, as well as dry indoor air, all of which contribute to winter colds.

 

 

Differences in Symptoms of Summer and Winter Colds

Summer Cold Symptoms

• Digestive Symptoms: Summer colds often come with digestive symptoms such as stomach ache, diarrhea, and vomiting. This is because the combination of hot weather and the cold virus makes it difficult to regulate body temperature.
• Other Symptoms: Fever, headache, cough, and sore throat may occur, often overlapping with allergy symptoms.

Winter Cold Symptoms

• Respiratory Symptoms: Winter colds mainly feature respiratory symptoms such as coughing, phlegm, nasal congestion, and sore throat.
• Other Symptoms: Fever, headache, and body aches are common.

 

Recovery Time and Challenges of Summer Colds

Summer colds can take longer to recover from than winter colds. While the average duration of a winter cold caused by the rhinovirus is about 7-14 days, a summer cold caused by enteroviruses can last about 20 days. This means summer colds can persist longer and be more challenging to recover from.

 

Overlap Between Summer Colds and Allergies

During summer, there are many allergens like pollen, leading to the simultaneous occurrence of allergies and colds. Allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes, redness, runny nose, and sneezing can appear along with cold symptoms. In such cases, it is important to visit a hospital to treat both allergies and colds.

 

Prevention Tips for Summer Colds

To prevent summer colds, it is essential to follow these tips.

Temperature Control

• Keep the indoor and outdoor temperature difference within 5 degrees Celsius. Use long-sleeved clothing or blankets to regulate body temperature when using air conditioning.

Proper Ventilation

• When using air conditioning, occasionally open windows to keep indoor air fresh.

Stay Hydrated

• Summer colds can cause dehydration, so it is important to drink plenty of fluids. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.

Regular Exercise

• Spend some time outside and engage in light exercise to help maintain your immune system.

Hygiene Practices

• Wash your hands frequently and make it a habit to wash your hands after returning from outside to prevent viral infections.

 

Lifestyle Habits Related to Summer Colds

To prevent summer colds and maintain good health, consider these lifestyle habits.

Balanced Diet

• Consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to get the vitamins and minerals needed to strengthen your immune system.

Adequate Sleep

• Get 7-8 hours of sleep each night to relieve body fatigue and boost your immune system.

Stress Management

• Stress can weaken your immune system, so try activities like meditation or yoga to manage stress.

 

Summer and winter colds differ in their causative viruses and symptoms, with summer colds often including digestive symptoms and having a longer recovery period. To prevent summer colds, it is important to control temperature, ensure proper ventilation, stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and maintain good hygiene. By following these prevention tips, you can protect your health during the summer and minimize the inconvenience caused by colds. Implement these practices to enjoy a healthy summer.