Asthma BETTER with common cold?!

[GreatGateway]

I thought colds and flus were meant to make asthma worse, but I feel really good these last few days if you don't count the usual cold misery. Why has my asthma eased up with something known to worsen it? Or will my asthma only flare up AFTER the cold passes?

EDIT: I never usually cough with asthma. Could coughing so much be helping me?

[Hidden]

It varies from asthma sufferer to asthma sufferer and from viral infection to viral infection. With me, if an infection starts with a sore throat my asthma usually (note 'usually') won't flare up noticeably. My peak flow might drop a bit, but not enough to worry me. If, however, an infection begins with a tight little cough my inner alarm bells go off; I have ended up with severe asthma issues following on from such symptoms. Not often these days; if I'm worried I'll contact my local GP practice and they will fit me in to see a doctor on the same day.

It's good that your asthma hasn't flared up, but I would keep a check on your peak flow rates until you know you are fully recovered - just in case.

[Matman]

My theory is that sometimes one kind of virus or bacteria comes along which outcompetes a pre-existing stuborn one that has taken up long term residence and is exacerbating a respiratory condition (even if the pre-existing infection's presence was not that apparent). At least, that's what I believe recently happened to me lately. Some infections are known to destroy other infections.