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Why are colds common during winter months?

JANUARY 8, 2015, BY

(KTVI) – Here comes the freezing temperatures… and the cold and flu symptoms? While it’s never been scientifically confirmed, Winter is typically known for being the season of sickness. According to SLUCARE Pediatrician Dr. Ken Haller, there seems to be good reason for that.

A recent study looked at how quickly viruses grow in different temperatures, particularly in the nose where body temperature tends to be lower since that’s where air comes in from outside.

Haller says the study showed that in lower temperatures, viruses tend to grow more so as people outside in the freezing temperatures, breathing in the cold air, their bodies are more susceptible, making it not just easier for viruses to grow there but also harder for your body fight off the virus.

Dr. Haller has some advice if you want to try to prevent winter sickness. First, drink lots of water. He says hydration is very important, and we should actually be drinking more water in the winter than in the summer. Next, try using a salt water nasal spray a few times a day to give your nose some extra protection and to keep your mucous membranes moist.