Common cold is an inflammation of the upper respiratory tract. This is one of the most common illnesses in humans. Usually caused by viral or bacterial infections, they are highly contagious. This can cause discomfort for your nose, throat, sinuses, and ears. Cold symptoms usually subside in 3-4 days.
CAUSES
Common cold may be caused by different kinds of viruses and bacteria. Microbes causing cold spread from person to person through droplets in the air or by touching surfaces contaminated by infected persons. The virus enters the body through mouth or nose when a contaminated hand comes in contact.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of common cold usually start after 2-3 days of infection. Usual symptoms are:
鈥⑻� 听Running or stuffy nose
鈥⑻� 听Sore throat
鈥⑻� 听Watery eyes
鈥⑻� 听Malaise
鈥⑻� 听Decreased appetite
鈥⑻� 听Low-grade fever
鈥⑻� 听Cough
鈥⑻� 听Mild headaches and muscle aches
鈥⑻� 听Sneezing
Prevention
鈥⑻� 听Clean your hands thoroughly and often
鈥⑻� 听Always cover your mouth when you sneeze and cough, this prevents the spreading of these microbes.
鈥⑻� 听Always sneeze and cough into tissues. Discard tissues right away and wash your hands.
鈥⑻� 听Don鈥檛 share drinking glass, utensils, when someone is sick in your family.
鈥⑻� 听 Avoid close and prolonged contact with anyone who has a cold.
Management
鈥⑻� 听Keep well hydrated with lot of water and juices.
鈥⑻� 听Keep your room warm
鈥⑻� 听Steam inhalation will help in reducing symptoms
鈥⑻� 听Warm salt water gargling will soothe the throat
鈥⑻� 听Try to get at least eight hours of sleep daily.
鈥⑻� 听Avoid smoke and smoking
鈥⑻� 听Lozenges will give some smoothening action.
Treatment
Your doctor may prescribe pain relievers, cough syrups, decongestants and lozenges to relieve symptoms.
This piece is contributed by AUN Clinic. For further information, please contact