Autumn and winter are usually the seasons in which colds with sore throats, coughs, and runny noses are more common. Viruses and bacteria that cause flu infections can cause symptoms all year round.
It is all the more important to know how to protect yourself well against infections and which tips or assumptions should be made with caution. There are various myths surrounding colds. Find out what they're all about in our guide to the best ways to avoid getting infected in the first place. For confidential support, call the Samaritans in the UK on 08457 90 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or see www.samaritans.org for details. In the U.S., call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255 or visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. Back to the page you came from."How cold, blowing your nose, and washing your hands really make sense" - 24vita. Washing your hands can ultimately protect against infections. If it is not possible to wash your hands, you should at least avoid touching your mouth, eyes, or nose with your hands. It also helps to carry hand sanitizer with you in case of emergencies. VITAMIN C can have a positive effect on the course of a cold, i.e. promote the healing process, but an extra intake through the diet or even dietary supplements does not protect against infection. Pulling up and swallowing nasal mucus is often viewed as gross and unhygienic, even though doctors actually recommend it. This is because the tiny hairs in the nasal mucosa transport the mucus towards the stomach, where the stomach acid can kill any germs. In particular, people who have already had nasal surgery are advised to pull up nasal mucus instead of blowing their nose. It can prevent more mucus from being pushed into the sinuses, and germs from settling and multiplying there.