Most cases of common cold and flu occur during the fall and winter season, but some might end up with the conditions during summer. Even though not quite common during the warm months, the condition is not actually rare and can occur any time of the year.
Common cold during the summer season is quite common but occur less frequently than those that occur in the fall and winter months.
What are the possible causes?
Common cold is triggered by viruses, not the current weather which is why it can occur at any time of the year. It is more common during the colder months since the virus can rapidly spread in cold, dry air.
During the winter season, people stay indoors which means that they are more exposed to others and their microorganisms. Remember that this does not mean that they could not occur during the warm months. The viruses responsible for triggering common cold are always around.
What are the signs and symptoms?
The indications of common cold during the summer is not different from cases that occur in other times of the year. The prevalent symptoms include the following:
- Congestion
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Watery eyes
- Itchy nose, eyes or throat
In case the symptoms are different from those, it might be a different condition. The individual might have seasonal allergy or viral infection.
Management of common cold
Dealing with a summer cold is not easier than managing a cold any other time of the year. There is no cure for common cold but there are various over-the-counter medications that can ease the symptoms. In addition, there are also alternative remedies that can be used as well.
If medications are used, it is vital to identify the bothersome symptoms and find the right one that focuses on those symptoms. It is not advisable to use medications that treat symptoms that are not present.
Other alternative measures to manage common cold include a saline spray, humidifier and neti pots for relief from the symptoms.
Preventive measures
Preventing common cold is still the best option. Even though it is not always possible, there are measures that can maximize the potential for avoiding the condition regardless of the season.
- Washing hands is the most effective measure to avoid being sick with any common conditions. Wash thoroughly using warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds and then dry the hands.
- Using a hand sanitizer is the next option if there is no access to water and soap.
- Multivitamins have been marketed to keep the body healthy. Nevertheless, depending on the diet and health of the individual, this may or may not be true. If in doubt, a doctor can be consulted regarding the right multivitamins to use.