Can you get sick from the cold?

October 7, 2024

Cold weather has always been associated with illness, especially as winter approaches. However, is it really the cold that makes us sick? To better understand this question, it is essential to examine the real impacts of cold weather on our bodies.

1. Cold weather itself is not the direct cause of illness ❌

Popular belief holds that cold weather is responsible for colds and flu. However, cold weather itself does not directly make us sick . It is viruses and bacteria that cause these infections. However, cold air has an indirect impact on our health.

Why? 🤔

Weakening of the immune system : When our body is exposed to cold , it works harder to maintain its internal temperature. This can decrease the effectiveness of our immune system, making it less able to fight infections.
Dry air : In winter, humidity levels decrease, which dries out the mucous membranes in our nose and throat. These mucous membranes act as a barrier against viruses. Air that is too dry can make them less effective, making it easier for germs to enter and make us sick .
Human proximity : Cold weather pushes people to stay indoors, in closed spaces, thus increasing the chances of virus transmission.

👉 Conclusion : It is not the cold itself that makes you sick , but rather the conditions it creates that favor the transmission of viruses.

2. Cold and its effects on the body

Although few people know it, cold can have beneficial effects on the body such as:

Natural anti-inflammatory : Cold acts as a pain reliever and reduces inflammation. This is why athletes use ice packs after an injury.
Metabolism Boost : Exposure to cold stimulates metabolism, which can help burn brown fat. According to a 2014 study published in the journal Cell Metabolism , unwanted white fat is more easily converted into brown fat when exposed to cold.
Improved sleep : Cold promotes the release of endorphins and helps you sleep better. It also stimulates blood circulation, helping the body recover.

3. Can you really be more sensitive to the cold?

Some people are more sensitive to the cold than others, especially the elderly, children, or those with chronic illnesses. This phenomenon can be explained by:

Reduced blood circulation : With age or certain illnesses , blood circulation may become less efficient, making it more difficult to regulate body temperature.
A weakened immune system : A weakened immune system makes you more vulnerable to infections, which may explain why some people get sick more often in winter.

4. How to protect yourself from the cold and its effects?

Cover up 🧤 : Avoid heat loss by wearing appropriate clothing, such as scarves, gloves and hats.
Maintaining good humidity at home 💦 : Using a humidifier can help keep mucous membranes hydrated.
Adopt perineal cryotherapy 🧊 : Cryotherapy can help improve blood circulation, relieve pain and strengthen the immune system.

5. The effect of cold on other conditions

It is interesting to note that cold is used as a method of relief in certain cases of illness or pain. For example:

To relieve endometriosis : A study conducted in collaboration with Dr. Cotte showed that perineal cryotherapy can reduce endometriosis pain. Learn more
To improve male fertility : Cold weather can also help men maintain better sperm quality, as sperm production is optimal at a lower temperature than the body. Learn more

Conclusion

Cold isn't an enemy in itself, but it can create conditions conducive to infections. Adopting healthy habits and taking advantage of the benefits of cold, such as cryotherapy, can help strengthen our immune system and improve our overall well-being.

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