There is nothing more frustrating than catching a cold during the summer when all you want to do is enjoy the warm weather and sunshine! Whether you’re on a beach vacation, summer break from school, or at home relaxing on your porch, it’s that time of year when you want to be outside and healthy. While there’s no guarantee that you can completely avoid a summer cold, there are things you can do to reduce your chances of getting sick. Here are 4 ways to avoid a cold during the summer months:

1. Avoid sudden temperature changes.

One of the biggest ways you can increase your risk of illness in the summer months is to walk between hot weather outdoors and indoor spaces with cold air conditioning. When you come into your home or other building with air conditioning, it lowers the defenses of your nose and throat by closing the blood vessels. If a virus is present, you are more likely to get a cold because your immune system is weakened. If possible, try to minimize the number of times you go between air-conditioned spaces and the outdoors.

2. Get enough sleep.

Woman Sleeps Many of the ways to avoid colds during the winter also apply in the summer months, including getting enough sleep. Although summer can be full of outdoor activities, it’s still important to spend the right amount of time and relaxation indoors. You should avoid any excessive activity and stress that can challenge your immune system, especially if you are starting to show early symptoms of a cold. By getting enough rest and sleep, you prepare your body for a strong defense against summer sickness!

3. Stay hydrated

While staying hydrated is one of the most important ways to avoid a cold in the winter, it’s even more important in the summer when you’re sweating profusely. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, especially if you’re outdoors at a barbecue or spending time at the beach. Water is the best fluid, but warm drinks like tea can be soothing if you start to feel symptoms. Try to avoid any drinks that can dehydrate your body such as alcohol, coffee and energy drinks.

4. Wash your hands frequently

Wash your hands with soap and water Another important way to avoid colds during the summer or any other time of the year is to wash your hands frequently! This is especially important when using public restrooms and other areas where pathogens are likely to spread. If you’re traveling, it can be helpful to have some hand sanitizer with you to keep your hands clean. While hand sanitizer doesn’t replace the benefits of regular hand washing with soap and water, it can still help fight many germs.

Now that you know how to avoid colds during the summer months, we hope you enjoy a healthy and happy summer! At McKay Pharmacy, we are dedicated to improving your health and wellness. About how we can help you with all your pharmaceutical needs!