Depending on the specific virus, temperature, humidity and surface type, common cold viruses can survive a significant period outside the body on commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, taps, light switches and toys. As much as you love to snuggle up by a heater in the wintry months, be aware that turning up the heating can drop the humidity and dry out your virus-fighting mucus, putting you at greater risk of the common cold and influenza, a less common but more severe condition.
Washing your hands frequently with soap and water particularly before handling food, eating or after blowing your nose keeps germs under wraps and prevents you from becoming infected with or spreading common cold causing nasties and other viruses. Cold, wintry air and indoor heating cause a drop in humidity, which create cosy conditions for viruses to proliferate and spread but using a humidifier can help reintroduce moisture in the air.
You can get your yoga on if only experiencing mild symptoms, but listen to your body and stick to light sessions. Staying hydrated is an important step in your winter and all-year round survival kit — helping prevent your sticky mucus from drying out so it can continue to trap foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses. Mucus will also help cleanse out nasal passages before any nasties can sneak into your lungs.
That depends - the short answer is no. Ideally, your priority should be on recovering to full health by skipping the run, eating a balanced, vitamin-rich diet and de-stressing as stress whether mental or physical, can impair your immune function. If nothing is going to keep you from hitting the pavement or missing out on race day, consider whether your symptoms are above-the-neck or below-the-neck.
If there's any doubt, please check with your doctor to be sure. Temporarily avoid high intensity sessions, run at a slower, recovery pace and cut back the distance. For healthy adults, normally it will naturally resolve within 7 — 10 days. Rhinoviruses and the common cold. Share on Pinterest Research suggests that temperatures below Effect of cold weather on viruses. Effect of cold weather on the immune system. Share on Pinterest Less vitamin D during winter months can affect the immune system.
Exposure to air pollutants may amplify risk for depression in healthy individuals. Costs associated with obesity may account for 3. Related Coverage. Everything you need to know about head cold. Medically reviewed by Graham Rogers, M. Is pneumonia contagious? Medically reviewed by Judith Marcin, M. What should you eat when you are sick? Medically reviewed by Natalie Butler, R.
How do I know if I have a cold or sinusitis? You may experience chest or body pain or achy joints and limbs. This is the result of blood vessels contracting in order to preserve heat, which leads to shivering and muscle pain. The best way to prevent this is to dress warmly. Portlanders have figured this out by dressing in layers when venturing out in the fall and winter — okay, and spring — months.
Rainy, cold weather can also trigger sneezing, nasal congestion , and cough in those with mold allergies. Damp weather exacerbates spore growth in fungi, leading to these and other allergy symptoms in susceptible individuals. Limit outdoor activities, especially in areas like forests, to help reduce exposure.
Invest in a dehumidifier for problematic areas such as basements, and take care of leaky pipes and other sources of water intrusion as soon as possible.
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