Hi all !! I live in a VERY cold city and all the people here keep telling me to put on more clothes (like long johns) OR i will catch a cold - I totally disagree with this as catching a cold is all to do with ones immune system right ??? My health is VERY good and i wear very little clothing - and NEVER catch a cold or flu !! So please help me with your thoughts or knowledge on this matter !! Thanks sooooooooo much !!
2007-01-21 21:47:12 · 5 answers · asked by Sarahdv7 2 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Infectious Diseases
You are correct. The only way to catch a cold is to be exposed to the virus that causes it. However, putting your body through the stress of constantly being cold can harm your overall health and make it more likely for you to get a cold rather than to fight it off it you are exposed.
2007-01-21 21:58:46 · answer #1 · answered by Some Guy 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
From what I have learned in school, you are correct, you can not catch a cold from being out in the cold with too little clothing on. However, if you already have some sort of bug traveling around in your body, then being out in the cold will make it easier for that bug to take over your body. I don't know if the cold makes your immune system weaker or what, but that is why that saying exists, because ppl end up with colds after being out in the cold.
If you never catch colds or the flu, I guess I don't see a reason to change your dress habits, but that doesn't make the suggestion of dressing warmer a bad one.
2007-01-21 22:05:18 · answer #2 · answered by Justaguyinaplace 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The common cold is a virus that can live on objects for several days. Touching something that had this virus then putting your hand to your mouth and/or nose will give you a cold. But do dress in layers as it does help you stay warm.
2007-01-21 21:57:18 · answer #3 · answered by greylady 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The cold and flu viruses prefer a slightly lower temperature than our body temperature (36.9 C), so by not "wrapping up warm", you are making life easier for the viruses. Incidently, that is the reason why we get a high temperature with illness.
By the way, I do the same as you!
2007-01-22 01:30:43 · answer #4 · answered by Bacteria Boy 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I always felt personally that cold came from viruses in the air and not the amount of clothes you wear. I say wash your hands and avoid touching your face. It has always worked for me.
2007-01-25 15:58:54 · answer #5 · answered by jay g 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋