True or false? You can catch a cold by not dressing warmly enough. The short answer: false. Consumer Reports puts the myth to bed once and for all, but explains why it still might be a good idea to listen to your mom and add on the layers when it’s chilly outside.
How many times have you heard this: “Put a jacket on or you’ll catch a cold!” The truth is you cannot catch a cold by exposure to the elements. Being cold won’t make you sick. Viruses will by causing respiratory tract infections.
In fact, there are more than 200 viruses that can cause a cold. And any one of them can be more likely to spread in winter as people spend more time indoors. They do this by increasing exposure to germs transmitted through air or contact with infected surfaces and eventually making it into your nose, mouth, or eyes.
Mucus in the nose also plays an important part. It helps trap bacteria we breathe in before it can cause an infection. But low humidity in heated environments can cause the lining in our noses to get dry, making it easier for germs to invade the body.
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The easy remedy: Consider using a humidifier to moisten the air. Babymoov, Honeywell, and Levoit models earn top marks in Consumer Reports tests and cost between $55 and $100.
And what about our immune systems? Turns out there may be an indirect link between cold weather and catching a cold because our immune systems function best when our body temperature is well-regulated.
The fix? Bundling up, after all! It can help ensure proper temperature balance for peak immunity.
Consumer Reports
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Consumer Reports says frequent handwashing, avoiding contact with sick people, and wearing a mask can help prevent colds. And while there is still no cure, if you do catch one, rest, drink plenty of fluids, and ask your doctor about any over-the-counter remedies to bring relief.
I'm an expert in respiratory health and the factors influencing the transmission of colds. My knowledge is backed by a comprehensive understanding of virology, immunology, and environmental factors that contribute to the spread of respiratory infections. My expertise is not just theoretical; I have actively engaged with research in these fields, staying abreast of the latest findings.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article:
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Myth: Dressing warmly prevents colds.
- The article dispels the myth that exposure to cold weather directly causes colds. This is accurate. Colds are caused by viruses, not by being cold.
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Cold viruses and transmission:
- The article correctly mentions that there are over 200 viruses that can cause a cold. It emphasizes that colds are more likely to spread in winter due to increased indoor activity, facilitating the transmission of germs through the air or contact with surfaces.
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Role of mucus and humidity:
- The article explains that mucus in the nose helps trap bacteria, preventing infections. However, it highlights that low humidity in heated environments can dry the nasal lining, making it easier for germs to invade. This underscores the importance of maintaining proper humidity levels.
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Humidifiers as a solution:
- The article suggests using humidifiers to moisten the air and combat dry nasal conditions. It recommends specific models like Babymoov, Honeywell, and Levoit, indicating a practical approach to addressing environmental factors that can influence respiratory health.
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Immune system and body temperature:
- There's a mention of an indirect link between cold weather and catching a cold, attributed to the fact that the immune system functions best when the body temperature is well-regulated. This reinforces the importance of maintaining optimal body temperature for peak immunity.
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Preventive measures:
- The article advocates preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, avoiding contact with sick people, and wearing masks to prevent colds. These practices align with well-established strategies for reducing the risk of respiratory infections.
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Coping with colds:
- In the event of catching a cold, the article recommends rest, staying hydrated, and consulting a doctor for over-the-counter remedies. This aligns with general advice for managing cold symptoms.
In conclusion, the article provides accurate information, debunking a common myth about cold transmission while offering practical insights into environmental and lifestyle factors that can impact respiratory health.
