The common cold is something that inevitably affects everyone. While you can get a cold anytime of the year, contraction of a cold most commonly occurs during the fall, winter, and early spring. Peak activity tends to occur in the colder months when the air is drier and indoor crowding is increased.
What is the cold?
The cold is a viral infection in the upper respiratory tract. It may also be referred to as a URI (upper respiratory infection). The cold can be caused by a variety of different respiratory viruses. Due to the large number of different causes, adults in the United States have two to three colds per year on average while children often have more. This makes colds one of the most common reasons for missing school or work. The cold typically lasts less than a week.
What are the symptoms associated with the cold?
The common cold has several symptoms. These symptoms peak within 2 or 3 days of infection and can include:
- Sneezing
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Fever
- Mild body aches
- Headache
- Sore throat
Complications
Some complications from respiratory virus infections include:
- Ear infections
- Sinus infections
- Pneumonia
- Bronchitis/bronchiolitis
- Worsening of chronic medical conditions
- Asthma attacks
What are some cold treatments that actually help?
In most cases, cold symptoms will naturally get better on their own given time, but there are some other options to help treat symptoms of the common cold.
Adults
Your healthcare provider or pharmacist may be able to provide some over-the-counter medicines like fever reducers or pain relievers that may lessen symptoms. These medicines will not cure illness and limiting exposure to others, especially those with preexisting health conditions, remains vital. Remember to always use over-the-counter medicines as directed.
Children
Over-the-counter medicines can result in serious side effects In children younger than 6 years old. Young children can take acetaminophen (or ibuprofen) for fever. For the correct dosage for your child, talk to your healthcare provider and make sure to follow all directions.
Some ways to help your body fight off cold symptoms may include:
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Use a humidifier
- Get plenty of rest
- Use throat lozenges or cough drops
You should seek medical care if symptoms include:
- Trouble breathing
- Faver lasting longer than 4 days
- Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days without improvement
- Dehydration
- Worsening chronic medical conditions
If any of the above apply to you, or if you believe you may be suffering from symptoms associated with the common cold, visit a MedWise Urgent Care near you for treatment options.