Summer colds: causes, symptoms and what to take

When we talk about colds, the very word tends to transport us mentally to the cold and winter; however, although it may be hard to believe, at least 20 per cent of colds occur during the hottest months of the year – in summer. In this article, we explain why this happens and how long a summer cold lasts, what the most common symptoms are, and what you should do to get better as quickly as possible.

Why do we catch a cold in summer?

It’s true that autumn and winter are the seasons when we’re most prone to catching a cold, partly because viruses survive better at low temperatures and partly because we tend to spend more time in air-conditioned indoor spaces, which encourage the spread of the virus between people. However, it’s also common to catch a summer cold due to:

• Above all, sudden changes in temperature, mainly linked to the use of air conditioning or night-time drops in temperature. The explanation is simple: when moving from hot to cold and vice versa, the nasal mucosa is affected, temporarily reducing its ability to defend against viruses and other external agents, which makes it easier for them to enter.
• Excessive use of air conditioning: yes, you can catch a cold from air conditioning, as it causes a lack of humidity, which can dry out the airways, making them more susceptible to infections; furthermore, if the units themselves are not kept clean, they can release particles that trigger immune system reactions.
• Stress: The start of the holidays sometimes brings an extra workload, which can lead to a build-up of tension and weaken our immune system.

How long does a summer cold last?

Most summer colds last between 5 and 10 days from the onset of the first symptoms, although some symptoms, such as a cough, may persist for longer.

In most cases, medical assessment is not usually necessary, as they are often linked to changes in temperature or the use of air conditioning and do not usually cause a fever. However, it will be necessary in the case of chronic patients or those at risk of developing other complications.

Symptoms of a summer cold

The symptoms of a summer cold are very similar to those of any other cold, and the most common include the following:

• Runny nose and nasal congestion
• Fever
• Cough and a sore throat
• Sneezing
• General malaise
• Vomiting or diarrhoea (less common)

Air-conditioning-induced cold: symptoms

As we’ve said, you can catch a cold from air conditioning and the symptoms are the same; you may also experience dry eyes due to prolonged exposure to air conditioning.

How can you avoid catching a cold from air conditioning?

There is really no way to completely prevent colds, but there are some steps you can take to reduce the chances of catching one.

1. Wash your hands regularly.
2. Avoid contact with people who have a cold.
3. Avoid sudden changes in temperature.
4. Use air conditioning sensibly so that the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures is no more than 8–10 degrees
5. Maintain a healthy diet and stay well hydrated; avoid eating or drinking anything that is either too cold or too hot.
6. Get plenty of rest.
7. Use disposable tissues.
8. Do not share everyday items (glasses, etc.) with anyone who has a cold.
9. Avoid poorly ventilated areas or chemical irritants such as air fresheners or tobacco

What to take for a summer cold

If you’re wondering what to do about a summer cold or how to cure a summer cold, the first thing you should know is that there is no treatment capable of eliminating the virus immediately. In most cases, it is a mild infection that clears up on its own within a few days, so the aim is to relieve the symptoms and aid recovery.

As well as avoiding direct exposure to air conditioning, it is recommended that you stay well hydrated, get plenty of rest and eat a balanced diet.

Some products that can help you feel better whilst you’re ill, and which we recommend at FarmaciasDirect, are:

Grintuss Adult, for dry and productive coughs

Grintuss Adult for dry and productive coughs has a formula based on natural ingredients that protects the mucous membranes, helping to soothe symptoms such as a cough or a sore throat without interfering with the body’s natural defences.

Magnesio total 5 Ana María Lajusticia

Total Magnesium 5 by Ana María Lajusticia. Thanks to its magnesium and vitamin content, it can help reduce tiredness during colds, as well as supporting the body’s proper functioning during recovery.

Rhinomer Plus F1

Rhinomer Plus F1 helps to clear the nasal passages, promoting the removal of secretions and improving breathing, as well as helping to keep the nasal mucosa moisturised, which is particularly important when exposed to air conditioning.

Although most summer colds resolve themselves, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you develop a high fever, experience difficulty breathing, have severe pain, or if symptoms persist for more than 10 days without improvement.