Common Cold Myths

Common cold myths are about as widespread as the common cold itself. One of the most common myths involves the weather, and its role as a so-called cause of colds. There is no evidence that you can get a cold from exposure to cold weather -- or from getting chilled or overheated. Other cold myths are related to the use of vitamin C, echinacea, or antibiotics to prevent colds. There is no clear evidence that any of these common cold myths have any truth to them.

 

Common Cold Myths: An Introduction

With such a common disease, there are bound to be many common cold myths related to the causes, prevention, and treatment for the common cold.
 
Some of these common cold myths are related to:
 
  • The weather
  • Antibiotics
  • Steam
  • Echinacea
  • Vitamin C.
     

Common Cold Myths: The Weather

One of the oldest common cold myths concerns the weather's impact on your chances of getting a cold. There is no evidence that you can get a cold from exposure to cold weather -- or from getting chilled or overheated.
 
Although colds are not related to the weather, people are more likely to get colds during the colder months. There are thought to be a couple of different reasons for this. During colder weather, people are inside more and in closer contact with people who might be contagious. Also, cold weather may make the inside lining of your nose drier and more vulnerable to viral infection.
 
(Common Cold Myths Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD