Does Cold Weather Make You Sick? Not Exactly. Doctors Separate Myth From Fact
Plus get expert advice on preventing sickness when temperatures drop
You may have grown up hearing that if you went outside in the cold weather without wearing a jacket, you’d get sick. But is this just an old wive’s tale, or does cold weather really make you sick? While it’s not entirely accurate, the idea that cold weather makes you sick isn’t a complete myth either. To help you stay safe this sick season, we asked our experts how the cold can impact your health and their top tips for avoiding colds and viruses when you head outdoors.
Does cold weather make you sick?
The short answer is no, cold weather itself cannot directly make you sick. However, it may make you more susceptible to germs such as bacteria and viruses, experts agree.
How cold weather affects your health
“Just because cold weather itself doesn’t make you sick doesn’t mean you won’t get sick if you go outside without a coat and proper clothing to protect yourself against the elements,” cautions Brynna Connor, MD, Healthcare Ambassador at NorthWestPharmacy.com.
Woman's World Answers
Prolonged exposure to cold weather can have serious medical consequences such as hypothermia and/or frostbite, she explains. Additionally, people with respiratory issues like asthma may be affected more severely when out in cold weather. The cold air can irritate or cause inflammation and narrow your airway, which makes it more difficult to breathe, she says.
Viruses spread more easily in cold weather
The common cold and the flu are caused by viruses that only thrive in certain conditions, Dr. Connor says. And cold, dry air happens to be the ideal breeding ground for viruses to spread.
Certain diseases, particularly respiratory infections, are more transmissible in this climate as it helps keep viruses stable and airborne, Dr. Connor explains. They then spread through respiratory droplets that can linger after someone who is sick coughs or sneezes.
Cold air may weaken your defenses
Colder months often coincide with a season full of holiday celebrations where large groups gather mostly indoors, which gives viruses ample opportunity to spread, Dr. Connor says.
“There is newer research that indicates exposure to cold air, particularly in the nasal passages, can weaken their defenses against invading germs and make you more susceptible to picking up a virus,” adds Dr. Connor.
This is likely because cold air can dry out your nose and throat, making it easier for viruses to sneak into your system, explains Raj Dasgupta, MD, Chief Medical Advisor for Fortune Recommends Health. Plus when you’re cold, your body works harder to stay warm. This may make your immune system less effective for some time, he adds. Finally, a quick switch from warm indoor temps to cold weather outdoors can stress the body, notes Dr. Dasgupta.
How to avoid getting sick in cold weather
Aside from the basics like washing your hands and avoiding close contact with those who are sick, it’s important to bundle up by wearing a jacket and other protective layers when going out into the cold. The more you cover up, the less vulnerable your body will be during these colder months. And that’s not just to avoid catching a cold or virus: Staying toasting will reduce your risk of frostbite or breathing troubles, too.
Pay extra attention to these areas
“Your fingers, toes and ears are the most susceptible to frostbite, so you must keep them covered, ideally with thick or insulated gloves, socks and a hat,” says Dr. Connor. “Depending on where you live or are visiting, you should think about layering to trap heat close to your body.”
In really cold temperatures, you should try to keep your face covered as well, adds Dr. Dasgupta.
Don moisture-wicking clothes
When heading outdoors, start with a moisture-wicking fabric closest to your body, Dr. Connor suggests, followed by an insular layer like a fleece and then a waterproof coat for optimal protection. You should also be particularly mindful of your footwear, especially in areas where snow is common, says Dr. Connor.
“Make sure you’re wearing waterproof boots (without holes!) and thick socks, ideally something like merino wool, that will keep your feet warm and dry,” she says. “In terms of fabrics, moisture-wicking ones like wool are always a good choice. Avoid cotton because it holds moisture and can make you colder.”
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