Understanding why some are more prone to illness

As cold and flu season approaches, many of us will be doing everything we can to avoid getting sick. However, it seems that some are simply more prone to illness than others, but why? Is there something that explains this difference, or is there something more to it?

“That’s the million dollar question,” said Farrah Hafiz, DOfamily medicine physician at Henry Ford Health. “Researchers are looking into why some people are more susceptible to cold and flu viruses. While we don’t have all the answers, we believe that your environment, genetics and immune system play key roles in determining your risk for these diseases.”

Understanding Cold and Flu Viruses

Both colds and flu are viral infections that affect the respiratory system. They affect the nose, throat, airways and lungs. Many people get a cold at least once a year, while the flu usually only affects someone once every few years.

Cold symptoms, which often develop gradually, may include:

• Cough and sore throat.

• Temperature (about 100–101 degrees)

• Headaches and muscle pain.

• Nasal congestion.

• Watery eyes.

Although flu symptoms can be very similar to those of a cold, they come on much faster and are more severe.

Other viruses, such as COVID-19, can cause isolated respiratory infections and cause loss of smell or taste.

Major risks of colds and flu

Everyone is susceptible to getting the flu or cold differently. Factors may include:

• Wednesday: Being around an infected person may increase your risk. When you touch contaminated surfaces or inhale air particles through coughing and sneezing, it can lead to infection.

• Genetics: “Researchers believe that genetics may play a large role in our risk of infection,” Hafeez said. There are genetic traits that may provide protection, while others may make you more susceptible.

• Immune system: The immune system is made up of various cells, tissues and organs that help fight off infections. Conditions that affect immune function can affect the risk of contracting diseases. A healthy immune system, bolstered by past exposure to viruses, may provide some protection against future infections.

“Researchers are studying the mechanisms that make us sick and how these factors combine to increase risk or protect against diseases such as colds and flu,” Hafeez said.

She added that these factors can also affect the risk of contracting other viruses such as COVID-19.

“Some evidence suggests that people have naturally acquired immunity to COVID-19 from previous infections with colds and coronaviruses. Other research suggests that people with higher levels of T cells (immune cells) are less likely to develop COVID-19. Getting a COVID-19 vaccine may also reduce your risk of infection.”

(COVID-19 vaccines are available at Henry Ford Primary Care locations. Click or tap here to find a location near you.)

Preventing colds and flu

To reduce the risk of infection this season, Hafiz recommended:

• Avoid touching your face, especially after contact with frequently touched surfaces.

• Clean and disinfect frequently used areas.

• Get a flu shot early in the season.

• Prioritize self-care. This includes eating a healthy diet, as well as exercise and getting enough sleep.

• Wash your hands regularly to limit the spread of germs.

Choosing an Over-the-Counter Medication

“There is no cure for the common cold, but you can ease the discomfort by getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids and taking over-the-counter medications,” Hafeez said.

If you think you have a cold or flu, it can be difficult to figure out which over-the-counter medicine will best help manage your illness.

Dr. Abigail Entzprimary care physician at Henry Ford Health, said it’s important to find one that targets your specific symptoms.

“Follow the directions on the label,” she said. “And check with your pharmacist to make sure the medication you choose will not interact with medications you take for chronic conditions.”

Enz recommended taking cold medicine if the illness is keeping you from doing daily activities or sleeping at night.

These over-the-counter medications may affect a variety of symptoms:

• Antihistamines: Effective for allergy symptoms, but some may cause drowsiness.

• Cough remedies: Helps block the cough impulse for a short period of time.

• Decongestants: They are available in various forms and will help relieve nasal congestion. Nasal sprays and pseudoephedrine (a common oral decongestant sold as Sudafed) reduce inflammation in the tissues of the nose. An ID is required to purchase pseudoephedrine.

• Expectorants: Help thin mucus and clear airways.

• Painkillers: Help deal with the pain.

When you use cold medicine, it is extremely important that it is done safely. Enz said you should:

• Avoid alcohol, as it can cause drowsiness when combined with cold and allergy medications.

• Talk to your pharmacist about the medications you are already taking. Some cold medications may affect people with high blood pressure or those who take certain supplements.

• Follow the instructions and do not exceed the recommended dose.

In addition to medications, don’t overlook basic care strategies that can help with recovery.

Entz said it’s important to rest, drink water, use humidifiers and try saline nose drops.

“It’s also important to get an annual flu shot to protect yourself from getting seriously ill,” Dr. Enz emphasizes.

Consultation with a medical professional

If home remedies and over-the-counter medications do not provide relief, consider seeking medical help. Dr. Enz recommends contacting your doctor if you experience:

• Dizziness or fatigue.

• Persistent fever that lasts more than four hours despite taking pain medications.

• Persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

• Symptoms improve and then worsen after a few days.

Colds and flu usually last between seven and ten days. If symptoms persist after this period, it is recommended to see a doctor as you may have a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics.

If you are experiencing cold and flu symptoms or are around someone with symptoms, Dr. Entz also recommended getting tested for COVID-19.

“Some of the new COVID-19 variants have symptoms similar to colds and flu,” she said.

If you suspect you have been exposed to COVID-19, go PCR or antigen test. Keep in mind that symptoms may take several days to appear on the test.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides testing and isolation recommendations. If the test result is positive, contact your doctor to discuss treatment options.

Seek medical help immediately if you experience:

• Pain when breathing.

• Dyspnea.

• Chest tightness or wheezing.

Knowing the source of your symptoms will allow for more targeted treatment discussions with your doctor.

To find a Henry Ford Day Care location, visit henryford.com/SameDay or call 800-436-7936.