Symptoms of Common Cold

The following are some of the symptoms of common cold. They typically last for a week to ten days. In some cases, the patient might experience some of these symptoms for a few weeks.

• sore throat / scratchy throat
• runny nose
• nasal congestion
• frequent sneezing
• cough
• fatigue
• headache
• fever
• muscle ache
• loss of appetite

Spreading of Common Cold

Common cold is contagious. It usually spreads when a person comes in contact with an infected person’s secretions. For instance, a person affected by common cold could sneeze and without realizing it, touch a normal person, thus, passing on the infection. Also, the virus can thrive on almost all objects around the sick person such as telephone, computer, pens, cups and so on. Having said that, the common cold can usually be taken care of at home itself. A person affected by it, usually recovers once the virus has lived its course. Let us look at some possible steps that can be taken to avoid the common cold.

Steps to Avoid Common Cold

• Washing your hands frequently can curb the possibility of catching the common cold. This is because when you wash your hands frequently, it kills the viruses you may have contacted while touching contaminated surfaces.
• Try and avoid sharing cups / utensils with people affected with the common cold. It might be advisable to use disposable cups to avoid getting infected.
• Smoking is also said to be a possible cause for common cold. It will be beneficial to strive towards the cessation of this habit.

Treatment for Common Cold

As mentioned earlier, there are a host of viruses that could be responsible for afflicting an individual with the common cold. There is no standard cure for this viral disease and since most of these viruses are self-limiting, the patient usually recovers without consuming antibiotics. However, some over-the-counter medication might help to reduce the discomforts caused due to common cold. These decongestants or antihistamines might assist in relieving symptoms like muscle pain and headache. The patient can also take cough drops to soothe their sore or scratchy throat.

The following steps can also be taken to alleviate the pain and discomfort caused due to the common cold:

• consume lots of liquids / fluids
• give your body some much needed rest
• gargling with saline water

When one is afflicted with the common cold, if the symptoms persist or continue to worsen, it is advisable to consult a physician. Worsening of common cold could lead to more severe problems like acute bronchitis, sinusitis, pneumonia or strep throat.

Since the common cold is made up of many different strains of viruses, it is virtually impossible to develop a cure. Nothing can kill the virus; it just has to run its course. Having said that, it is also true that the only way to truly avoid getting sick is to simply try and maintain good health. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables, eating foods rich in antioxidants, taking sufficient rest, regular exercise and healthy diet are some positive steps that can ensure general good health and well-being.

Tips and Warnings

Never give children over-the-counter drugs to try and cure the common cold. This could lead to other, more serious complications. Always consult a professional medical practitioner before administering drugs to children.