Why do I keep getting colds? Cold symptoms, how long it lasts, if it’s contagious and why it is worse at night

It’s a common time of year to catch a cold, but you may be finding them worse than ever at the moment.

But why might you keep getting colds, how long do they last for and are they contagious?

Here’s what you need to know.

Why do I keep getting colds?

Our bodies are constantly exposed to new viruses and other potential microbial infections, but they can usually manage to fight these off if our immune systems are strong.

However, it’s not uncommon for people to go through a period of months with numerous new infections after becoming overtired both physically and mentally.

This can result in heavy colds or flu-like illnesses, which can then in turn cause the immune system to be reduced for a while.

Alongside this, with people following social distancing guidelines and lockdown restrictions since the start of the Covid pandemic, they may not have been as regularly exposed to cold viruses as in previous years, but are finding themselves among more people and winter bugs as restrictions have eased.

To boost your immune system, it is advised to try to avoid getting overstressed, exercise regularly and eat the correct foods.

You can also eat a healthy, balanced diet, which is low in sugary foods and saturated fats.  Try to eat foods containing vitamin C, antioxidants, selenium, zinc and vitamin E, such as fruits, nuts and pulses.

What are the symptoms of a cold?

You can often treat a cold without seeing a GP and you should begin to feel better in about one to two weeks.

Cold symptoms come on gradually and can include:

• a blocked or runny nose
• a sore throat
• headaches
• muscle aches
• coughs
• sneezing
• a raised temperature
• pressure in your ears and face
• loss of taste and smell

The symptoms are the same in adults and children, but symptoms sometimes last longer in children.

How can I treat a cold?

To treat a cold you can:

• rest and sleep
• keep warm
• drink plenty of water (fruit juice or squash mixed with water is OK) to avoid dehydration
• gargle salt water to soothe a sore throat (not suitable for children)

You can also:

• ease aches or lower a temperature with painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen
• relieve a blocked nose with decongestant sprays or tablets

Decongestants should not be given to children under six and children aged six to 12 should take them for no longer than five days.

You can buy cough and cold medicines from pharmacies or supermarkets.

Are colds contagious and how can I avoid spreading or catching them?

Colds are spread by germs from coughs and sneezes, which can live on hands and surfaces for 24 hours.

To reduce the risk of spreading a cold:

• wash your hands often with warm water and soap
• use tissues to trap germs when you cough or sneeze
• bin used tissues as quickly as possible

The best ways to avoid catching a cold are:

• washing your hands with warm water and soap
• not sharing towels or household items (like cups) with someone who has a cold
• not touching your eyes or nose in case you have come into contact with the virus – it can infect the body this way
• staying fit and healthy

If you’re struggling to sleep at night with a cold, and lack of sleep is then making you feel worse, you can try adjusting your sleep schedule and giving your body as much rest as it needs.

You could also take nighttime cold/flu medicine to help alleviate coughing and other cold symptoms, and consider using a humidifier or nasal decongestant.