Home LivingWellnessWhy you’re more likely to catch a cold in winter, reveals scientistsScientists find the real reason you get sick during the winter monthsWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Home LivingWellnessWhy you’re more likely to catch a cold in winter, reveals scientistsScientists find the real reason you get sick during the winter monthsWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Scientists find the real reason you get sick during the winter months
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: Polina Tankilevitch / Pexels)
(Image credit: Polina Tankilevitch / Pexels)
Can you catch a cold from the winter weather? Turns out the answer is yes, as scientists have recently found the real reason why you’re more likely to catch the cold or flu in the winter.
Scientists from Harvard Medical School & Northeastern University have recently discovered that the cells inside the nose have a previously unidentified immune response when faced with viruses. These cells pick up signs of bad bacteria and release small fluid-filled sacs as a defense mechanism to fight off or neutralise infections.
(Image credit: Noelle Otto / Pexels)
(Image credit: Noelle Otto / Pexels)
The scientists discovered that the immune response was vastly reduced or blocked due to the colder temperatures, meaning there’s a higher risk of bacterial or viral infections getting in through the nose when it’s cold. So, if you’re currently suffering from a cold or flu, it could be because the cold weather has made it harder for your nose to fight off illnesses… the old wives tale is true!
Of course, the cold weather is not the only reason you might be feeling under the weather this year. Typically, you have to come into contact with someone who’s ill and viruses tend to last longer when it’s cold. But this research does dispel rumours that cold and flu is more rampant this time of year because people are spending more time together indoors, and it proves that the cold has an impact on our immunity.
Tips for overcoming the common cold
If you’re currently suffering from a cold or the flu, there are a few things you can do to aid your recovery and make yourself feel better. It goes without saying that you should talk to a doctor if you’re feeling particularly under the weather, and taking cold and flu medication can relieve any pain and symptoms that you have. To help you get over your illness quicker, try to get plenty of rest on thebest mattressand wrap up warm at night or when you leave the house. For more sleep tips, check outhow to sleep better with a cold.
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While it’s still debatable whether ‘starve a fever, feed a cold’ is effective or not, staying hydrated and nourishing your body is key to making you feel better. Drinking plenty of water, getting vitamin D and consuming warming foods like soups can be very soothing.
Other methods that can be comforting while you’re sick is gargling salt water for a sore throat and steaming your face to ease congestion. Some research also suggests that using thebest essential oilscan boost your immune system and reduce inflammation and headaches.
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