Why don't I always catch a cold?

[Spinnor]

Can I assume that even though I am a bit of a germ phobe that my body is on a daily basis exposed to cold germs? I try to be careful about keeping my hands clean and not sticking them in the wrong places (mouth, nose, eyes ?).

If I am constantly exposed to cold germs and I don't always get a cold can I assume that normally my immune system can fight off cold germs?

If I eat well, sleep well, and have a job that requires the expenditure of a moderate amount of energy can I assume that my immune system is best prepared to defeat cold germs that might get into me?

If on the other hand my diet is not optimal, I don't sleep enough or don't sleep well, and I work to exhaustion that my immune system is then not at peak performance and not best prepared to fight off cold germs?

If a cold germ manages to infect someone can I assume that there can be a spectrum of outcomes, from no signs of sickness to death from complications?

Thank you for any help or suggestions. Getting over a cold and pissed at getting sick.

 

[Drakkith]

I'd say you hit the nail on the head with every point. Normally your body does just fine even though it is surrounded by viruses and bacteria. Sometimes, for a variety of reasons, you just can't fight off the germ quick enough to avoid getting symptoms and catching a cold. IE normally if a few bacteria/viruses get into you they are eliminated quickly, but sometimes they aren't and are able to multiply and cause symptoms.

 

[Dr_Morbius]

Also the common cold is not just one disease it's actually caused by many different combinations of viruses. As time goes on and you catch a cold your body becomes immune to that strain of the common cold and as you get older you are less likely to become infected with the common cold.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_cold

 

[Greg Bernhardt]

IE normally if a few bacteria/viruses get into you they are eliminated quickly, but sometimes they aren't and are able to multiply and cause symptoms.

I'm not an expert, but I've always held the view that it's not usually the presence of a dangerous virus or bacteria or substance, but the amount that matters. Our bodies contain lots of dangerous entities, but usually are in manageable amounts and in the right places.

 

[LudusRex]

I can assure you that your assumption is correct. Your body is constantly exposed to cold germs on a daily basis, and it is your immune system's job to fight off these germs and prevent you from getting sick. However, the strength and effectiveness of your immune system can vary based on several factors, such as your diet, sleep habits, and level of physical activity.

Eating well, getting enough sleep, and having a moderate level of physical activity can certainly help boost your immune system and make it more efficient at fighting off cold germs. On the other hand, if your diet is not optimal, you are not getting enough sleep, and you are constantly exhausted from work, your immune system may not be at its peak performance and may struggle to fight off cold germs.

It is also important to note that even with a strong immune system, there can still be a spectrum of outcomes when it comes to getting sick. Some people may not show any signs of sickness at all, while others may experience more severe symptoms. This can also depend on factors such as age, underlying health conditions, and overall health status.

In conclusion, while being a germ phobe and practicing good hygiene habits can certainly help prevent the spread of cold germs, it is ultimately your immune system's ability to fight off these germs that determines whether or not you will catch a cold. Taking care of your overall health and well-being can certainly improve your immune system's performance and decrease your chances of getting sick.