Myths About The Common Cold: The cold season has arrived, and the likelihood of catching a cold is higher than ever.
Since the average person catches a cold two to three times a year, many attempt various strategies to prevent it. However, according to experts, some common beliefs about colds are inaccurate and not to be relied upon.
Myths About The Common Cold, In a report by Yahoo Life, Dr. Thomas Russo, an infectious disease expert at the University at Buffalo, outlines five common myths about colds:
Common Myths About The Common Cold
Myth 1: Only One Virus Causes Colds
Myths About The Common Cold, The reason you might catch a cold several times in one season, even after recovering from one, is that many different viruses can cause colds.
Approximately 200 different respiratory viruses can lead to the common cold, overwhelming the immune system. In the United States, rhinoviruses are the most common culprits, but other viruses, such as human coronaviruses, parainfluenza viruses, adenoviruses, enteroviruses, and human metapneumoviruses, also play a role.
Myth 2: Going Outside With Wet Hair Increases Your Risk Of Catching A Cold
Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist, debunks this widespread misconception, stating:
Myths About The Common Cold, “This is a very common but false belief. The cause of colds is viruses, and viruses don’t care if your hair is wet or you feel cold!”
Myth 3: Vitamin C Prevents Colds
Myths About The Common Cold, Pharmacy shelves are filled with vitamin C supplements, reflecting their popularity. However, the belief that vitamin C can prevent colds lacks scientific backing.
An analysis of 29 clinical trials involving over 11,000 participants revealed that regular vitamin C consumption does not reduce the frequency of colds. However, some evidence suggests that taking vitamin C after catching a cold might help.
Myths About The Common Cold, One review of clinical trials found that consuming at least one gram of vitamin C daily during a cold reduced the severity of symptoms by 15%. Another study indicated that taking vitamin C within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms might help shorten the duration of the illness.
Myth 4: Colds Only Occur In Winter
Myths About The Common Cold, While colds are indeed more prevalent during winter, particularly from September to May (late September to mid-May in the Northern Hemisphere), catching a cold in summer is not unheard of.
Dr. Russo Explains:
“Viruses are always present, but some are more common in specific seasons. Summer colds are caused primarily by enteroviruses, whereas rhinoviruses are the main culprits for colds overall.”
Myth 5: Antibiotics Can Cure Colds
Myths About The Common Cold, Antibiotics have become so commonly used to treat various illnesses that it’s surprising for many to learn they don’t help with colds. Dr. Russo clarifies:
“Antibiotics target bacteria, not viruses. In other words, they have no effect on treating colds.”
Myths About The Common Cold, Excessive use of antibiotics not only fails to treat colds but also increases bacterial resistance to these medications. Therefore, if symptoms worsen or include fever or severe cough, it’s essential to consult a doctor.
Myths About The Common Cold, By understanding these myths, individuals can make better decisions about managing and preventing colds while avoiding ineffective remedies.
Also Read:
The 6 Most Effective Home Remedies For Cold During Pregnancy
The 14 Best Foods To Treat Cough And Cold
The Best 11 Home Remedies For Cold And Flu In Babies And Kids
