The term “cold snap” is commonly used to designate viral winter diseases. But can you really catch cold and get sick or is it just an expression? We take stock.
“You were poorly covered you must have caught a cold”. An expression that comes up every winter with the drop in temperatures and the circulation of viral diseases. Catching a cold snap is manifested by a headache, sneezing, runny nose… but it can also cause fever, diarrhea or vomiting. Causes, Symptoms and Treatments with Dr. Patrick Aubé, general practitioner.
Definition: what is a cold snap?
The “cold snap” as such does not exist. If it is true that we fall ill more easily in winter, it is not because of the negative temperatures, but because these weaken the bodywhich makes it easier for viruses to enter.
What are the symptoms ?
“Viral ENT infections beginning with a cold snap are colds, angina, flu symptoms. They manifest themselves by a sore throat, runny nose, cough, fever. Digestive conditions, such as gastroenteritis, are linked to rotaviruses and noroviruses. They circulate a lot between December and January. They manifest themselves by nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever“, says Dr. Patrick Aubé.
What is the cause ?
There are no infections related only to cold
“The proliferation of viral infections when it is cold is due to the fact that the organism is less resistant against viruses because it is very frequently requested and that the viruses in question benefit from a better cold survival. But it is necessary thatthere is an encounter with a virus, generally brought by others, there are no infections linked only to the cold. It should not be forgotten, however, thatexcessively dry air linked to heating and air conditioning can make our ENT mucosa more fragile and susceptible to viruses“, explains the general practitioner.
How long does a cold snap last?
Viral winter illnesses usually heal within a few days (from 2 to 10 days), but some may evolve into sinusitis or bronchitis. Digestive disorders heal spontaneously in a few days, but can be complicated by dehydration in infants and the elderly.
Is it contagious ?
Winter viruses are all highly contagious. This is why it is essential to respect barrier gestures: wearing a mask, use of single-use tissues, frequent hand washing, regular ventilation of rooms, sufficient sleep, betting on a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (vitamin C).
What treatments to treat a cold snap?
Recommended treatments to treat a viral disease are :
- rest,
- nose washes with saline or a seawater-based spray,
- taking an analgesic to soothe headaches.
In the event of gastroenteritis, if the hygiene and dietary measures are not sufficient, it is possible to resort to digestive dressings or anti-diarrheals. In any case, you should always seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
What natural remedies for a cold snap?
In case of chills and fever that persist for more than four days, do not hesitate to consult a health professional.
To treat ENT coldsDr. Patrick Aubé recommends:
► Not to rush on anti-fever drugs. Fever is a normal reaction of the body and helps the immune defenses to play their role. If it is very high or very uncomfortable, you can use paracetamol for two to three days.
► To use essential oils inhaledwhose decongestant action on the ENT mucosa is often interesting: 2 drops of essential oil of ravintsara ortea tree in a bowl of hot water, three times per day.
For acute gastroenteritis of viral origin, the general practitioner recommends drinking small quantities of sugary and sparkling waterto eat mainly rice and pasta, and to bring some digestive comfort thanks to peppermint and lemon balm herbal teas. In case of chills and fever that persist for more than four days, do not hesitate to consult a health professional.
Thanks to Dr. Patrick Aubé, general practitioner, author of Les tisanes qui soient, published by Leduc.S