Common Cold
What is it?
The common cold is a general term for a group of minor, highly contagious viral infections that cause inflammation of the mucous linings of the nose and throat. Symptoms generally develop one to two days after exposure to the virus, and the cold is contagious for the first two to three days of symptoms. No cure exists, but spontaneous recovery generally occurs within a week to 10 days. Colds tend to be more frequent in the winter than in the summer and more common among children than adults, since immunity to many cold viruses develops with age. Colds may, however, cause serious complications in patients suffering from chronic respiratory disorders.
What Causes It?
- Over 200 different strains of viruses (predominantly rhinoviruses and coronaviruses) cause colds.
- Infected persons may spread cold viruses by direct contact, such as shaking hands or kissing, or through the air, by coughing or sneezing. The virus may also spread via contaminated objects, such as drinking glasses or playing cards.
- Contrary to popular belief, colds are not caused by fatigue, cold air, wet hair, or wet clothes.
Prevention
- Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water, especially after visiting public places.
- Avoid touching the face with unwashed hands.
- Don't share towels or drinking glasses.
- Try to limit exposure to people with colds.
- Contrary to popular belief, taking large doses of vitamin C has not been shown to prevent colds.
Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is made by observation of symptoms and does not require a doctor.
How to Treat It
- Take aspirin or acetaminophen to relieve headaches and muscle aches and to reduce fever. Acetaminophen is recommended for children under 12.
- Use cold medications sparingly. Avoid "shotgun" remedies that claim to treat all cold symptoms—they are often ineffectual. Nasal decongestant sprays and drops should not be used for more than a few days, as they may actually aggravate congestion with extended use. If you are coughing up mucus, avoid cough suppressants, since they will permit mucus to accumulate in the lungs.
- Drink plenty of fluids to help loosen mucus secretions in the lungs.
- Gargle with warm, salty water several times a day to soothe a sore throat. Sucking on hard candy will help keep the throat lubricated.
- Rest at home (in bed if you feel like it) for the first day or two to aid recovery and to prevent spreading the cold to others.
- Antibiotics do not help treat a cold, but they may be prescribed if you develop a secondary bacterial infection.
- Zinc lozenges have been reported in some studies to shorten the duration of the common cold, but other investigations have found no difference with their use.
When to Call a Doctor
- Call a doctor if cold symptoms persist for more than two weeks, especially if they increase in severity.
- Call a doctor if you suffer from a chronic respiratory disorder and you catch a cold.
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Copyright © 2008 Medletter Associates, LLC
Content excerpted from Johns Hopkins Symptoms and Remedies: The Complete Home Medical Reference.