Doc MacLean
Keeping active can ward off cold during this time of year
HAVE you had your flu jag yet? It is that time of the year when your GP surgery will be contacting you to get your Influenza vaccination if you are in one of the most at-risk groups. In recent years the groups of patients eligible for flu vaccination has expanded with all older patients and those with chronic disease such as asthma and diabetes invited to get the jag. Remember it offers protection only against the influenza virus – not every snuffle and cough which are so prevalent over the winter months.
It was of particular interest to see the results of a study which looked at the risk of catching the cold virus in those who are active compared to the inactive members of the population. The study of 1,000 people found that staying active nearly halved the chances of catching one of the cold viruses and that the infection was less severe in those who exercise who caught a cold. In general most adults in the UK suffer from 2-5 colds each year. The results indicated that being older, male and married and those who had a healthy diet (especially eating plenty of fruit) resulted in fewer infections. But most striking was the near 50% reduction in those who were active compared to the inactive members of the study with not only the frequency reduced but the severity as measured by days of symptoms.
So how can this be? It has long been suggested that being active stimulates our immune system with a rise in the cells in our blood which fight off the virus particles as they enter our body, usually via the nose and mouth. Though this effect is temporary it explains why those who are regularly active derive the greatest benefit as they maintain their exercise over most days of the week.
But what should we do if we catch one of these viral illnesses? Most viral respiratory infections are self-limiting, last a few days and may result in a fever, runny nose and a cough. Exercising during any febrile illness is not recommended so a few days rest, some Paracetamol, hot drinks etc is best practice. Stay off work to reduce the risk to workmates until you feel better. Don’t return to activity until the fever has resolved and you feel back to normal with your usual energy level – if in doubt wait another day or two until you really are over the illness and return to activity gradually.
While it is even harder in those cold, wet winter nights to get out and about, there are many ways to keep fit and the key is to choose something which you enjoy and will keep going. Avoiding or reducing the misery of the cold is just another good reason to keep active.
■ To contact the Hampden Sports Clinic call 0141 616 6161 or visit www.hampden sportsclinic.com