Published: 04 July 2025 : No matter how romantic a rainy day is, sneezing, cold or fever are inevitable problems when you return home wet. Many people think that getting wet in the rain makes you cold. But the question is, how does rainwater make us cold? There are several physical and environmental reasons behind this.
1. Body temperature suddenly drops
Our normal body temperature is around 37 degrees Celsius or 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. When the body gets wet because the rainwater is cold, the body temperature starts to drop rapidly.
This hypothermia-like condition temporarily weakens the body's immune system, making it easier for colds, coughs, or viruses to attack.
2. The effect of wet clothes and wind
When you get wet in the rain, your clothes stay wet and the wind keeps blowing.
This wet clothing absorbs heat from the body and the wind increases the cold, doubling the chance of catching a cold when moving or staying outdoors.
3. Increases the chance of virus infection
During the rainy season, the humidity in the air is high, and the cold weather creates a favorable environment for viruses. Rhinoviruses (responsible for the common cold) in particular are more active in cold and damp environments.
When the body is cold or weak, the virus can easily cause infection.
4. The immune system becomes weak.
In cold and wet conditions, the body's immune system is temporarily weakened. During this time, although the body is able to fight off diseases, its response is reduced, resulting in sneezing, coughing, fever, etc.
5. Risk increases if care is not taken immediately after getting wet
Many people get wet and sit directly under the fan or AC or wait without drying themselves. This makes the body even colder.
Even if your hair is not dry, the cold affects the nerves in your head.
Things to do to avoid getting wet and cold in the rain:
Quickly dry yourself and put on dry clothes.
Dry your hair thoroughly.
Drink hot tea or soup.
If necessary, soak your feet in warm water.
If you develop a fever or cough, seek medical advice.
Not everyone will catch a cold when they get wet in the rain, but the main cause of catching a cold is a drop in body temperature and viral infection when wet. So taking care of yourself quickly when you get wet is the best way to avoid catching a cold.
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