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Living with Cold & Flu

Can a Cold Trigger Asthma?

For most people, the common cold is a minor annoyance. But if you have asthma, a cold can trigger an asthma attack. Colds can be especially serious in children with asthma. Preventing colds and other infections, such as the flu, is one way you can stay healthy and minimize the risk of asthma attacks in you or your child. Read More About How Colds Trigger Asthma ›

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Can You Work Out With a Cold?

Your nose is running, your head aches, and your throat feels like it's been rubbed with sandpaper. So should you hit the gym—or your snooze button? The answer depends on your symptoms, your workout, and the steps you'll take to keep from sharing your infection with your workout buddy.

Most experts agree a moderate workout can't hurt, and may even help, a common cold. Use the above-the-neck rule as a guide. If your symptoms are all in your head, such as sniffles and sneezing, go ahead and take a walk or do another easy routine.

If you have any of the following signs, lay off of physical activity until you feel better:

Learn more about exercising with a cold ›

Test Your Common Cold Knowledge

Is it true that one-third of Americans catch a cold in the fall?
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Stop the Spread of Germs at Work

Illnesses such as the flu and colds are caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. They’re usually spread from person to person when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

They also can spread when a person touches cold or flu viruses deposited from another person on a desktop, doorknob, desk, telephone receiver, or handrail. Some viruses and bacteria can live for two hours or more on hard surfaces. If the person then touches his or her eyes, mouth, or nose before washing his or her hands, the viruses or bacteria gain entry to the body and infection can occur.

Learn more ways to stop the spread of germs at work ›

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Glossary of Cold & Flu Terms

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Allergy, Analgesic, Antihistamine, Bronchiolitis, Bronchitis, Croup, Decongestant, Echinacea, Expectorant, Humidifier, Mucus, Pneumonia, RSV, Sore Throat, Strep Throat, Swine Flu, Vaccine, Zinc

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Did You Know?

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If you have the flu, you are contagious one day before symptoms appear and up to five days after.

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