Why do we catch a cold? We grew up being warned that playing in the rain or sitting on cold concrete would lead to a cold. But how much truth is there in these old wisdoms? Can the cold and rain actually make us cold or are they just grandmother's devils passed down from generation to generation? In this article, we will explore the scientific evidence that separates the myths from the truths about how weather conditions can lead us to catch a cold.
Studies show that cold weather and cold can have a negative effect on our immune system, increasing the likelihood of catching a cold1. Why do we catch a cold? The primary cause of a cold is a viral infection, not a low temperature as such. Cold weather can increase your likelihood of contracting the virus, as viruses may survive and multiply better in cooler temperatures. In addition, the cold can lower your immunity by constricting the blood vessels in your nose.
It is also a mistake to believe that you can catch a cold with wet hair or clothes. Wet hair or clothes don't make you more attractive to cold-causing germs. However, prolonged exposure to cold and humidity can weaken your immune system, increasing the likelihood of catching a cold.
Why do we catch a cold if we are hypothermic - science explains. Our ability to fight a cold also depends on the ambient temperature. Yale researchers have discovered a connection between temperature and our ability to fight colds. They found that the virus thrives at temperatures between 33 and 35 degrees Celsius (91 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit), but slows down at 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit). This evidence suggests that the cold can actually slow down our ability to fight off the common cold.
Preventive measures against colds include keeping warm and dry, avoiding contact with sick people, regular hand washing and avoiding touching the face and eyes6. Therefore, on cold and rainy days, it is better to stay warm and dry to keep your immune system strong and avoid catching a cold.
The most common viruses associated with colds include the following:
- Rhinoviruses:
- Rhinoviruses are the most common cause of colds. Research shows that there are more than 200 different viruses that can cause the common cold, but rhinoviruses are the most common type among them.1.
- Rhinoviruses are the main causes of colds and can also contribute to about half of asthma exacerbations2.
- Coronaviruses:
- Although the term "coronavirus" has become more familiar recently due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some strains of coronaviruses, such as 229E, NL63, OC43, and HKU1, are common causes of mild to moderate upper respiratory infections such as the common cold.3.
- Along with rhinoviruses, coronaviruses are one of the most common groups of viruses associated with colds4.
These viruses are usually spread from person to person through the air or close personal contact. Although there is currently no cure for the common cold, you can reduce the risk of infection by taking appropriate preventive measures, such as regular hand washing and avoiding contact with sick people.
Cold myths persist, but scientific evidence clearly shows that colds are caused by viruses, not cold or rain. However, the cold and humidity can weaken your immune system, making you more likely to catch a cold. So, the next time you're caught in the rain or cold, remember to protect yourself and stay warm and dry to stay healthy and avoid nasty colds. Now you know why we catch a cold.
