Dear Alice, I have been under quite a bit of stress lately and cannot seem to shake a cough and swollen gland. Every time I start to feel better, it starts all over again. Also, I hate to admit this, but I smoke. It's been going on about two months. If you are at Columbia, call x4-2284 to make an appointment.
Smokers can experience colds of longer duration, increased severity, and with more complications.
If you are interested in quitting smoking, and you are also a Columbia student, you can call the Health Service at x4-2284 to sign up for a smoking cessation seminar. Stress could also be a factor because it increases susceptibility to illness by suppressing your immune system. Regular exercise and rest can also be of some benefit.