Smoking and the Common Cold

The common cold can hit you at any time, but there are points in the year when it is most prevalent. The good news is there are steps you can take to reduce your risks of getting a cold. Even if you contract a cold, you can treat the symptoms and recover. Usually, a cold will affect you for seven to 10 days. Be aware, though, that smoking can aggravate the symptoms and make you more prone to a more serious bout of the illness.

How people get colds and what the symptoms look and feel like

Viruses cause the common cold. Hundreds of viruses can do this, but usually it is rhinovirus, coronavirus, or RSV that is the instigator. The cold spreads through close person-to-person contact. This occurs through droplets from sneezing and coughing or through touch. Large gatherings such as school classes can be breeding grounds for colds.

Symptoms can vary and look different for everyone. However, generally, a person will have a runny or stuffy nose. A cough, sneezing, and sore throat are also usually evident. Body aches and chills can be a symptom too. Some people will get headaches or may even have a low-grade fever.

What smoking does

Smoking is one of the most difficult habits to break. It can affect a person’s health in many ways. When it comes to the common cold, smoking damages the lungs, making breathing more difficult. It is never a good idea to smoke in the first place, especially during cold season. Aside from affecting a cold, smoking is linked to other respiratory issues.

Getting in the way of recovery

Another symptom of the common cold is ineffective breathing. Congestion can get in the way of the person’s ability to breathe well, especially at night during sleep time. If a smoker catches a cold, it will be even more difficult to breathe. This affects the ability to get oxygen to the bloodstream, which can have an impact on other health functions. A person who smokes will typically have a more challenging time getting over a cold too.

More facts about smoking and the common cold

Anyone can get a cold, including the youngest and oldest of people. However, smokers are more likely to catch a cold. This can happen during any season. Smokers also can catch the most serious symptoms of this sickness and need urgent care. A cold will usually affect a person for seven to 10 days, though symptoms can hang around longer. Smokers are more often than not on the longer end of the spectrum, sometimes struggling with a cold for weeks.