Caught a cold from the cold? This may be a misunderstanding

The weather is getting cold and many people around me have caught colds.

We always say "catch a cold",

It seems like these two are the same thing.

At least there is a causal relationship.

Actually, it is not.

Just like when you wear long johns, the leaves should fall.

But apparently the leaves don't fall

It has nothing to do with whether you wear long johns or not.

I have said in previous programs,

Colds are caused by viruses

An acute upper respiratory tract viral illness.

Attention, it's a virus.

It is the one that is causing trouble on the nasal mucosa.

That's why you have a headache, runny nose, nasal congestion and fever.

So where did the virus come from?

In fact, most of them are caused by rubbing eyes and picking nose.

My hands are touching everywhere.

Naturally, there is a high chance of being exposed to the virus.

Although this thing is no different from dust most of the time,

But once it encounters a suitable host cell,

I immediately became energetic.

Invade, kidnap, and replicate yourself with all your strength,

Then escape from the host,

Keep looking for the next target.

The common cold virus mainly targets

The respiratory epithelial cells.

There are tear ducts in the eyes that connect to the nose.

So don't rub your eyes or pick your nose.

Even if you want to rub or pick it, wash your hands first.

In addition to hand contact, another source is droplets.

So it is important to wear a mask.

Everyone knows this now.

Even if it's not for the coronavirus,

Wear a mask during flu season

It is also the most responsible way to treat others and yourself.

What about catching a cold?

first,

Rigorous scientific research shows

The temperature has no effect on whether you catch a cold.

It all depends on whether there is virus reproduction in your nasal mucosa.

As for the cold that is often accompanied by strong winds and cooling,

This is because the dry air blows all the viruses up.

It's easier to blow into your nose.

There is no causal relationship with temperature.

Some people think that catching a cold means that one's immune system is weak.

This is also a misunderstanding.

The human body is sensitive to foreign substances.

From the simplest sneeze to cough to expel foreign matter,

To activate the immune system to kill invaders,

The stronger a person's resistance is, the more intense the reaction will be.

The typical cold symptoms mentioned above

In fact, it is the body that is fighting against the virus.

For example, nasal congestion can also cause more mucus to accumulate in the nasal cavity.

The mucus in the snot wraps up the virus and then blows it out.

Raising body temperature reduces the activity of certain enzymes in the body.

Reduce the rate of viral replication.

On the contrary, people with weak immunity, such as AIDS patients,

Even if the nasal mucosa is infected with the virus

No cold symptoms will occur.

So, the so-called cold medicine only relieves cold symptoms.

But the symptoms have eased and the efficiency of controlling the virus has decreased.

It was supposed to be seven days, but now it has to be delayed for another two days.

What medicine do you think I should take?

In fact, the common cold is a disease that can be cured by itself.

It doesn't matter if you can be more comfortable.

It is neither life-threatening nor has any sequelae.

What really needs attention is

Children under two years old who also suffer from asthma

and people over 80 years old.

They need treatment.

Because there is more than one disease involved here.

For most people,

To deal with the common cold, drinking plenty of water and getting enough rest are enough.

Influenza is another major category.

All illnesses other than influenza are called common colds.

The reason why I singled it out is,

It's because the flu is much more powerful.

The key is that influenza is a zoonotic disease.

It's hard to guard against.

However, influenza is a scourge every year.

Vaccines are also provided every year.

But the most fundamental thing is to prevent and treat the common cold.

Wash your hands frequently, rub your eyes and pick your nose less, and wear a mask when going out.

Human beings have today's civilization through gathering together.

Gatherings also create a breeding ground for virus outbreaks.

But civilization also teaches us to develop hygienic habits.

Only by doing our best can we be worthy of civilization.