GISMETEO: The therapist listed 5 key mistakes in the treatment of colds – Science and Space

The opinion that colds are caused by hypothermia is found even today, and its treatment is surrounded by many myths. Therapist A. Lavrishchev spoke about the mistakes people make when treating colds in an interview with “Evening Moscow».

Common people call a cold a disease of the respiratory tract, caused, as was previously believed, by hypothermia of the body. Scientists now know that this condition is caused by a viral (sometimes mixed with bacterial) infection of the respiratory tract.

What mistakes do people most often make when treating colds?

• They don’t get vaccinated. Now vaccination is the only reliable method of preventing influenza and covid. It is important to understand that it works effectively at the population level, but for each individual it only reduces the risk of infection. It’s never too late to get vaccinated.

• Antiviral drugs are used. Currently, there are no antiviral drugs that would effectively fight any ARVI. Yes, drugs against influenza and Covid exist, but they are not active against other viruses and can only be used after receiving a positive result from a rapid test for these diseases.

• Taking antibiotics without indications or for preventive purposes. You should not take such drugs without undergoing appropriate tests and a doctor’s recommendation.

• Tolerates high temperatures when you feel unwell. It is important to consider your condition. If your health worsens already at 37.1, then you need to bring down this temperature; if 38.6 is tolerated normally, you don’t have to take antipyretics.

• Do not take cold medications during pregnancy and lactation. In fact, it is not necessary to suffer in such cases. Now there are many medications that do not pose a danger to pregnant and breastfeeding women. So you just need to see a good doctor.