The term “summer cold” is used to describe the experience of a runny nose, watering eyes, and general malaise during the summer. In fact, “cold” is a bit of a misnomer, because a summer cold is not usually a cold in the medical sense, although the symptoms can feel very similar. There are a number of techniques which patients can use to address a summer cold, and for some patients, it may be a good idea to visit a doctor to get additional treatment and advice.
Technically, a cold is caused by a viral infection which leads to inflammation in the nose, sinuses, and related areas. A summer cold is not typically caused by a virus, but rather by a reaction to an allergen. Summer tends to about with allergens including pollen, grasses, smoke from the grill, and so forth. People tend to be outdoors much more during the summer, which leads to increased exposure to allergens, and can lead to the development of a summer cold.
The best treatment for a summer cold is to avoid allergens which serve as triggers, which may not be an appealing option for people who would like to be outside during the summer, rather than trapped indoors. Over-the-counter allergy medications can be used to manage the inflammation and irritation associated with summer allergies by weakening the immune system’s response to allergens. Measures such as staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and keeping fit can also help people manage a summer cold.
If a patient experiences congestion, decongestants can be used, and patients may also find that it helps to use an expectorant if they start coughing. That irritating tickle in the back of the throat which many people associate with a summer cold should also be resolved with an expectorant. Other techniques which can help include setting up a steam tent with a bowl of hot water and a towel to clear out the sinuses, and carrying a soft handkerchief to wipe the nose if it becomes runny.
Patients with severe allergies may find that it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor about some prescription medications which can be used to manage allergies. Allergy testing can also be performed to find out what, exactly, someone is allergic to. For example, a patient who is allergic to rye grass might be able to avoid that allergen reasonably easily, without too many sacrifices in terms of activities.