It’s summertime! The air is warm, the sun is out, and yet, you’re sniffling. Is it a cold? It might be. You can get a cold in the summer. While colds are more common in the winter, they can still occur during the warmer months. This is because the viruses that cause colds, primarily rhinoviruses, circulate year-round. Factors such as air conditioning can dry out the nasal passages and make them more susceptible to infection. Also, increased travel and social activities in the summer can contribute to the spread of cold viruses. In this blog, we’ll explore summer colds and explain when to seek medical attention.
For same-day general illness treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care West Orange. Our medical team is available to treat your cold symptoms seven days a week with no appointment required– just walk-in!
Are Summer Colds Different from Winter Colds?
Summer colds are caused by the same types of viruses that cause winter colds, primarily rhinoviruses and enteroviruses. However, there can be some differences in symptoms and contributing factors. For example, enteroviruses are more common in the summer and can cause symptoms like sore throat, rash, and gastrointestinal issues in addition to typical cold symptoms. Additionally, environmental factors such as air conditioning, increased travel, and outdoor activities can play a role in the spread and severity of summer colds. Despite these differences, the prevention and treatment of colds remain largely the same throughout the year.
Symptoms of Summer Colds
The symptoms of a summer cold are similar to those of a winter cold and can include:
- Nasal congestion is a common symptom.
- Sore throat
- Persistent coughing that can be dry or productive.
- Frequent sneezing due to nasal irritation.
- Mild to moderate headaches.
- Feeling unusually tired or weak.
- Low-grade fever, though it's less common.
- Generalized muscle pain or discomfort.
In some cases, especially with enteroviruses, additional symptoms such as a rash or gastrointestinal issues (like diarrhea) may occur.
How to Treat Summer Colds
Treating a summer cold involves managing symptoms and supporting the body's immune response. Here are some effective strategies:
- Ensure you get plenty of sleep to help your body recover.
- Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, and clear broths, to stay hydrated and soothe your throat.
- Use pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for headaches and body aches, as well as decongestants or antihistamines for nasal congestion and runny nose.
- These can help relieve nasal congestion and keep nasal passages moist.
- Drink warm teas, broths, or honey and lemon water to soothe a sore throat and reduce congestion.
- Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, which can ease nasal congestion and throat irritation.
- Gargling with warm salt water can help relieve a sore throat.
- Stay away from smoke, strong odors, and other irritants that can aggravate symptoms.
Get Walk-In Cold Treatment at AFC Urgent Care West Orange
While most summer colds can be managed with rest and over-the-counter remedies, it's important to know when to seek professional medical help. If you experience symptoms that are unusually severe or symptoms that last longer than ten days without improvement, it’s wise to visit an urgent care center. These could be signs of a more serious infection or complication that requires prompt medical attention. At AFC Urgent Care West Orange, your health is our top priority. We can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and plan the best treatment possible all on a walk-in basis. You can visit us any day during the week, including our convenient evening and weekend hours. For more information about general illness treatment, or other services we provide, please call to speak with one of our medical professionals at (973) 669-5900..
