It is a common misconception that colds are exclusive to colder months, often associated with winter. However, sniffles and coughs can certainly disrupt warmer seasons. While the typical “cold and flu season” occurs from late fall to early spring, summer colds are a real occurrence, caused by different viruses that thrive in warmer temperatures. Understanding these summer illnesses helps in identifying and managing symptoms.
Summer Colds Are Real
Colds are viral infections of the upper respiratory tract, and over 200 different viruses can cause them. While rhinoviruses are the primary culprits behind most winter colds, summer colds are frequently caused by enteroviruses. These enteroviruses are particularly active from June to October and are responsible for an estimated 10 to 15 million illnesses annually in the United States.
Although both rhinoviruses and enteroviruses can lead to similar respiratory symptoms like runny nose, sore throat, and cough, enteroviruses often present additional symptoms. They can affect the digestive system, leading to issues such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, symptoms less common with rhinovirus infections.
Factors Contributing to Summer Colds
Several factors contribute to the prevalence of summer colds. Spending extended periods indoors with air conditioning can play a role, as AC units reduce humidity and dry out nasal passages, making them more susceptible to viral entry. Viruses also reproduce more efficiently in cooler nasal environments created by air conditioning.
Increased summer travel also elevates the risk of exposure to new pathogens. Crowded public spaces like airports, trains, and even outdoor concerts or amusement parks facilitate the spread of viruses due to close proximity and shared surfaces. People encounter new viral strains to which their immune systems have no prior immunity, increasing the chance of infection. Changes in summer routines, such as less sleep or different dietary habits, can weaken the immune system, making individuals more vulnerable.
Distinguishing Summer Colds from Allergies
Differentiating between a summer cold and seasonal allergies can be challenging, as both share symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and congestion. A cold, being a viral infection, often includes a fever, body aches, and fatigue, which are typically absent in allergies.
Allergies cause itchy eyes, nose, or throat, and clear, watery nasal discharge, while cold mucus can be thicker and change color. Cold symptoms generally have a shorter duration, lasting about 7 to 10 days, while allergy symptoms can persist for weeks or even months as long as exposure to the allergen continues. If symptoms improve with antihistamines, it is likely an allergy.
Managing and Preventing Summer Colds
Managing a summer cold involves symptom relief and supporting recovery. Rest is important, as it allows the immune system to fight the infection effectively. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, broths, or electrolyte-rich beverages helps to thin mucus and prevent dehydration, especially if gastrointestinal symptoms are present. Over-the-counter medications like pain relievers for fever and aches, decongestants for stuffy noses, and cough suppressants can also provide relief.
Preventing summer colds involves similar practices. Frequent handwashing with soap and water is crucial, particularly after touching shared surfaces or being in crowded places. Avoiding close contact with sick individuals and refraining from touching your face, especially eyes, nose, and mouth, helps prevent virus transmission. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise supports a strong immune system, making you less susceptible to infections.