Fortunately, colds are short-lived, and most people recover from them within a few days or weeks. However, there are some risks associated with colds. For example, a cold may be a precursor to other infections, such as acute bronchitis and sinus infection. Moreover, a cold can worsen an existing condition, such as asthma or emphysema.
Treatments
Over-the-counter medications can help reduce fever, body aches, and cough. They can also help ease congestion. However, they should not be given to children. Adults often turn to ibuprofen and acetaminophen to ease pain and fever.
Although cold symptoms are usually minor, you should seek medical attention if you have any severe side effects. For example, if you have a fever higher than 100 degrees for more than three days, you may have a secondary infection. Medications such as antibiotics may be necessary for secondary infections that develop from colds. While it is essential to get plenty of rest, you should also avoid activities that make your body more susceptible to infections. Additionally, ensure you consume a healthy diet and drink plenty of water.
Aside from taking over-the-counter medication, you can also try home remedies for cold symptoms. For example, chicken soup can help your body get enough liquids to keep it hydrated. It is also soothing for your throat, and the cysteine in chicken soup may help thin mucus and ease congestion. You should also get plenty of rest, as your immune system needs time to fight off cold viruses. It would help if you aimed to get at least nine hours of sleep a night for children and ten hours for adults.
Symptoms
A common cold is not a severe illness but can cause a lot of discomfort. The most common symptoms are a sore throat and runny nose. You should avoid rubbing your nose and try to wash your hands frequently. This will help you to avoid the spread of the illness.
Colds are mild nose and throat infections caused by one or more viruses. Approximately one-half of people contract a cold every year. The most common viruses that cause colds are rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, and coronavirus. Viruses are spread through saliva and droplets of coughing. Additionally, they are spread through contact with contaminated surfaces.
The symptoms of a cold are similar to those of the flu. However, the flu is a more severe illness. In addition, cold symptoms usually last a few days, while flu symptoms come on suddenly.
Causes
One of the most common causes of colds is the spread of germs. Since cold viruses live on frequently touched surfaces, you need to be extra careful about touching other people. Try to wash your hands regularly to reduce the spread of germs. If you cannot avoid touching others, use hand sanitizers to prevent the spread of cold viruses. Also, drink plenty of fluids and stay home from work or school if you are sick.
Cold symptoms typically occur one to three days after the virus has entered the body. They begin with a scratchy throat and sometimes a runny nose. Some people also experience a mild fever. Nasal secretions change color from watery to yellow-green and eventually opaque. Coughing is also common and can last for days.
Duration
The duration of cold symptoms varies from person to person. Some people have symptoms for up to two weeks. However, symptoms are generally less severe after ten days. A cold typically begins with a runny nose and sore throat, and a mild fever may accompany it. The mucus discharge from the nose initially appears watery but gradually turns yellow or green. Coughing may also be present, but this does not always indicate an antibiotic need.
The CDC recommends that adults get two to three colds per year, though some people may have more depending on their immune system. On the other hand, children can experience as many as eight to ten colds each year. Cold symptoms usually start around eight to ten hours after the virus enters the body. A cold’s symptoms may include a sore throat, fever, body aches, chills, and lethargy, but they don’t usually last for more than a day or two.
Prevention
Protecting yourself from skin-to-skin contact is the best way to prevent cold symptoms. Wash your hands thoroughly after touching your face, and always cover your nose and mouth when coughing. Avoid touching people with colds, especially those with chronic respiratory diseases. You can also clean your hands by gargling with salt water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
The common cold is rarely life-threatening. However, it can lead to acute sinusitis and other infections if it persists. In severe cases, cold symptoms can result in strep throat, pneumonia, or croup. Therefore, it’s essential to prevent spreading the cold to others by washing your hands regularly and by keeping your hands dry.
