There has been a lot of discussion on Vocalist about these issues that are
near and dear to the hearts (and tracheas and larynxes) of singers. Let's
sort out terminology:
Colds - infection of the nasal passages, sinuses and often the ears caused
by one of many viruses from several classes of virus. There are about 200
different strains capable of causing a cold. Symptoms include runny nose,
sneezing, cough, congestion, itchy eyes and nose, sore throat and fever,
muscle aches, weakness.
Allergy - a response by the immune system which tries to attack a chemical
(an allergen) which has entered the body. When it involves allergens in the
respiratory tract, symptoms can include runny nose, sneezing, cough,
congestion, itchy eyes and nose, sore throat, fatigue.
Vasomotor symptoms - an excess response by the respiratory tract to an
irritant. Symptoms can include runny nose, sneezing, cough, congestion,
itchy eyes and nose, sore throat.
You will notice the three types of respiratory problem have similar
symptoms. Colds usually make you feel sick and are limited to 1-2 weeks.
Allergies occur only when exposed but some people are allergic to many
things, including house dust mites which are present year long. Vasomotor
symptoms occur when exposed to respiratory irritants, such as, excessive
dryness, cold, perfumes, smoke, dust and changes in atmospheric pressure.
Of course you can have allergic or vasomotor problems AND get a cold.
Much study has been done to try to stop colds at their onset. The number of
variables to control has made a definitive study difficult. Nonetheless,
there is some evidence that is far from solid that echinacea taken at the
very first symptom of a cold (in my own personal experience, it has to be
taken within hours of the first symptom) might shorten the infection.
Viratherm is based on a study that showed that heating the nasal membranes
to 40 degrees centigrade after innoculating the nose with cold viruses
impaired the viruses' ability to infect the nasal cells. It does NOT show
it prevents colds; that conclusion is extrapolated from this one study.
However, some people claim success. If it works, there is no reason why it
should not be used. At the least, it will help to loosen mucus.
Any steam source can help soothe the nasal mucus membranes and loosen
secretions. Oral fluids can keep secretions less viscous and easliy
cleared. Nasal irrigation with saline helps clear mucus from colds,
allegies or vasomotor rhinitis.
I can not logically understand why steam would help allergies, however.
Often allergies and vasomotor symptoms are confused since they look
practically identical to the sufferer. Steam can relieve symptoms but the
allergic reaction goes on despite the steam.
There are no treatments that are 100 percent effective for all people. Many
of the suggestions offered by list members may help. Acupuncture was given
an endorsement by Dr. Lloyd; I can see how that could affect the
manifestations of congestion and runny nose. As long as the acupuncturist
is skilled in treating that particular problem, I say try it. Some people
will still need medication to treat their symptoms.
As to colds, the best thing is prevention. I'll repeat recommendations I
have given before: NEVER touch your nose, eyes or mouth unless you have just
cleaned your hands. Wash with soap and water for 30 seconds or use one of
the new alcohol based gels for a couple seconds to remove/kill the viruses.
Unless someone sneezes or coughs into your face, you are much more likely to
catch a cold from self-innoculation. Also, adequate rest, proper nutrition
and regular exercise improve your resistance to infection in general.
John
John Messmer, M.D.
Assistant Professor, Family and Community Medicine
Penn State Hershey Medical Center
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