why does cold happen - #39699
I am really confused about why does cold happen all of a sudden? Like just the other day, I was out having fun with friends and suddenly I felt this tickle in my throat and then, bam! A full-blown cold. Would've thought I was fine right? My nose started running, and it felt like I was sneezing every few minutes. Super frustrating! I tried to drink warm water and some ginger tea but it’s still lingering around, you know? I’ve done some research and it seems like there’s a million reasons why does cold happen, but what is the Ayurvedic take on it? Is it just because my body was out of balance or maybe I stressed it too much? Last week, I didn't sleep well and was eating junk food... could that have played a role too? I’m just trying to connect the dots here because this cold is really messing with my routine and I don’t want to keep going through this cycle. Like, would some herbal remedies or even a change in diet help? Anyone have thoughts on how to prevent this in the future? Appreciate any advice!
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Doctors' responses
According to Ayurveda, a cold, or any sudden illness, can be linked to an imbalance in the doshas – primarily Kapha and Vata. When these doshas are disturbed, often due to seasonal changes, poor dietary habits, or stress, they can cause a cold. The symptoms you described, such as a running nose and sneezing, are indicators of Kapha accumulation, while the sudden onset, with the throat tickle signifies Vata’s erratic nature.
Your recent lifestyle choices, like lack of sleep and eating junk food, can indeed worsen these imbalances. Poor nutrition and rest weaken your body’s agni (digestive fire), which is crucial in maintaining immune strength. When agni is weak, AMA (toxins) can build up in the body, leading to illness, like colds.
Consider these Ayurvedic recommendations:
1. Diet: Incorporate warm foods and drinks, which soothe aggravated Vata. Stuff like warm soups, herbal teas are excellent options. Avoid cold and processed foods that increase Kapha.
2. Herbs: Ginger and Tulsi (holy basil) can be very beneficial. Try a Tulsi-ginger tea – boil water, add fresh ginger and Tulsi leaves, and drink twice daily. This helps reduce Kapha and strengthen agni.
3. Daily Routine: Aim for a consistent schedule that includes adequate sleep – this helps keep your doshas balanced.
4. Nasya Therapy: Application of Anu Taila or sesame oil in nostrils, as part of nasal cleansing may prevent the build-up of doshas in nasal passages helping clear congestion.
For lifestyle, establish a regular eating routine and incorporate stress-relieving activities like yoga or pranayama. As per future prevention, maintaining balance through these practices can support your immunity.
If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable to rule out other potential health issues.

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