Overview
The common cold is a mild viral infection that primarily affects the upper respiratory tract, including the nose, throat, sinuses, and upper airway. While it’s generally harmless, the discomfort it causes can be quite bothersome.
Types of common cold
- Rhinoviruses: These are the most common culprits behind colds. Approximately 100 different strains of rhinoviruses have been associated with cold-like symptoms in humans.
- Other Viruses: Beyond rhinoviruses, more than 200 agents can cause cold symptoms. These include parainfluenza, influenza, respiratory syncytial viruses, and reoviruses.
Causes of common cold
- A cold virus enters the body through the mouth, eyes, or nose. It spreads via:
- Droplets in the Air: When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
- Hand-to-Hand Contact: Direct contact with someone who has a cold.
- Shared Objects: Using items (e.g., dishes, towels, toys, telephones) contaminated with the virus.
- Self-Inoculation: Touching your eyes, nose, or mouth after contact with the virus.
Risk Factors of common cold
Several factors increase the likelihood of catching a cold:
- Age: Infants and young children are at higher risk, especially if they spend time in child care settings.
- Smoking: People who smoke may experience longer-lasting symptoms.
- Weakened Immune System: Individuals with compromised immune systems are more susceptible.
Symptoms of common cold
Common cold symptoms typically appear 1 to 3 days after exposure to the virus. They can include:1. Runny or stuffy nose
2. Sore or scratchy throat
3. Coughing and Aspiration
4. Sneezing
5. General feeling of unwellness
6. Slight body aches or mild headache
7. Low-grade Fever
Preventions of common cold
While there’s no foolproof way to prevent colds, some strategies can reduce the risk:
- Hand Hygiene: Regularly wash hands with soap and water.
- Avoid Close Contact: Steer clear of sick individuals.
- Boost Your Immune System: Eat a balanced diet, exercise, and get adequate rest.
- Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration supports overall health.
- Avoid Touching Your Face: Minimize the risk of self-inoculation.
Diagnosis of common cold
- Diagnosis is usually based on reported symptoms.
- No specific diagnostic test exists for the common cold.
- Evaluation involves ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms.
Treatment for common cold
- Rest and Hydration: Allow your body to heal.
- Over-the-Counter Medications: Decongestants, antihistamines, and pain relievers.
- Warm Saltwater Gargle: Soothes a sore throat.
- Humidifiers: Keep the air moist.
- Avoid Antibiotics: They don’t work against viruses.
- Consult a Doctor: If symptoms worsen or persist.
When to seek medical attention ?
For adults:
- Symptoms that worsen or don’t improve.
- Fever exceeding 101.3°F (38.5°C) lasting more than three days.
- Shortness of breath, wheezing, intense sore throat, or severe headache. For children:
- Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) in newborns up to 12 weeks.
- Rising fever or fever lasting more than two days.
- Intense symptoms (headache, throat pain, cough, etc.) or trouble breathing.
- Ear pain, fussiness, or unusual drowsiness.
- Lack of interest in eating.
