Many people believe that getting wet in the rain can make you catch a cold. But is this true? What is the link between cold weather and the common cold?
The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract, such as the nose and throat. There are many types of viruses that can cause a cold, but the most common ones are rhinoviruses. These viruses can spread from person to person through direct contact, such as shaking hands, or through the air, such as when someone coughs or sneezes.
Getting wet in the rain does not directly cause you to get infected by a cold virus. However, it may have some indirect effects that can increase your risk of catching a cold.
First, getting wet in the rain can lower your body temperature, which can affect your immune system. Your immune system is your body’s defense against germs and diseases. When your body temperature drops, your immune system may not work as well as it normally does. This can make you more vulnerable to infections, such as the common cold.
Second, getting wet in the rain can also make you more likely to stay indoors, where you may be exposed to more germs. During the winter months, people tend to spend more time inside and in close contact with each other, such as in stores, malls, and restaurants. This means that the cold viruses can spread more easily among people. If you are already feeling cold and wet, you may also be less likely to wash your hands or cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, which can also increase the transmission of germs.
Third, getting wet in the rain can also affect your mood and stress level, which can also impact your immune system. Studies have shown that stress can weaken your immune system and make you more prone to infections. If you are feeling unhappy, anxious, or depressed because of the cold and wet weather, you may also be more likely to get sick.
So, getting wet in the rain does not directly cause you to get a cold, but it can have some indirect effects that can increase your risk of catching a cold.
Dr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam, MD, FRCP (London), FACP (USA)
Internal Medicine Specialist
Kify Hospital
Danavaipeta
Rajahmundry
Phone : 85000 23456
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