The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract, including the nose, throat, and sinuses. It is one of the most common illnesses and is usually accompanied by a range of symptoms that can be bothersome, but are generally not serious.
Symptoms of the common cold typically include:
- Nasal congestion and discharge
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Headache
- Body aches
- Fever (although a fever is less common in adults with a cold)
- Fatigue
- Sneezing
Symptoms of a cold usually appear one to three days after exposure to the virus and can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Treatment for the common cold usually involves symptom relief, as there is no specific cure for the virus. Some common strategies for managing cold symptoms include:
- Getting plenty of rest
- Drinking plenty of fluids (especially water, broth, and warm beverages) to stay hydrated and help thin mucus
- Using over-the-counter pain relievers (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen) to reduce fever and relieve body aches
- Using saline nasal sprays or nasal decongestants to relieve nasal congestion
- Using throat lozenges or gargling with warm salt water to soothe a sore throat
- Using cough syrups or cough drops to alleviate coughing
It is important to note that colds are caused by viruses, so antibiotics will not be effective in treating a cold. In fact, using antibiotics unnecessarily can contribute to the problem of antibiotic resistance.
While there are no specific remedies for the common cold, there are some things that you can do to reduce your risk of getting a cold or to minimize the severity of your symptoms:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after blowing your nose or being in close contact with someone who is sick
- Avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and dispose of the tissue promptly
- Stay away from people who are sick, if possible
- Avoid sharing cups, utensils, and other personal items with others
- Eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise to boost your immune system
While the common cold is not a serious illness, it can be very annoying and disruptive. By following these tips and seeking appropriate symptom relief, you can help to minimize the impact of a cold on your daily life.