Oct 24, 2008

The Common Cold

Causes

 

The common cold is a viral disease that affects the upper respiratory system and is contagious. 

 

The surfaces of everyday use and hand-to-hand connection are ways to spread a cold.  Things such as a phone, your keyboard, or even doorknobs are easy ways to spread the infection.  Wash your hands as often as possible to avoid spreading the cold, especially after coughing or sneezing.

 

Symptoms Of Common Cold

  

Symptoms usually show two to five days after catching the infection.  Coughing, sneezing, nasal stuffiness, runny nose, sore throat are the most likely.  Muscle aches, tiredness, headaches, and lack of appetite are also symptoms that can occur with the cold but not as common.  The common cold on average lasts about 5-10 days in otherwise healthy adults. The cold can be worse in children and infants, you are more likely to see a fever in these cases. 

 

The common cold can turn into other types of infections as well, such as acute bronchitis, strep throat, or pneumonia.  If you have a lung condition such as asthma, it makes you more susceptible to such infections.

 

People with severe colds should be cautious if going to travel on an airplane.  This may cause complications due to pressure such as rupturing of the eardrum and vertigo.  Try to avoid air travel but if you have to, decongestants can be used to ease discomfort.

 

Common Cold Remedy And Treatment

 

There are ways to help with your congestion so that you may feel more comfortable. Importantly, keep yourself hydrated and get rest.  Since antibiotics do now work on the common cold there are some over the counter medications that alleviate some of the symptoms.  Such as saline drops for your nose, throat spray, and cough drops.

 

Myth Of The Common Cold

 

Contrary to popular to belief going outside with wet hair or getting a chill does not directly cause a cold.  Although, you may experience cold-like symptoms from these things.  Being in low tempatrures does lower your defenses against preventing a cold.

 

 

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