Common Cold

The Common Cold is an infection of the upper respiratory tract mostly in your nose and throat. The common cold is generally harmless but may be dangerous for infants and other high-risk groups. Children are more likely to suffer from colds than adults due to their low resistance. Grown-ups experience colds them less frequently after their immune system develops. Colds are the leading reason for doctor visits and missed days at work.

Fast Facts

1. Contagious first 2 or 3 days
2. Symptoms can appear in 10 hours
3. Cold symptoms milder than flu
4. Avoid caffeine drinks like coffee, tea, sodas
5. No evidence Vitamin C prevents colds
6. Fever may run up to 102 degrees in children
7. Symptoms lasting over two weeks may be allergies
8. Rhinoviruses cause 30-35% of colds in adults
9. The United States suffers from an estimated billion colds each year
10. Use tylenol to help prevent Reye's Syndrome in children recovering from influenza
11. Children average 6-10 colds annually
12. Adults average 2-4 colds yearly
13. Symptoms should improve in two weeks

Causes

The common cold is more likely to occur in the cooler months typically August through April because people tend to stay indoors more and germs accumulate. No research has proven yet if weather actually causes colds. One theory states the chilling of the body makes it more prone to illness. The common cold is spread by more than 200 viruses and is highly contagious. You can catch a cold by coming in contact with an infected individual. Cold symptoms appear one to three days after being exposed to viruses.

Cure

There is currently no cure for the common cold. The best way to stop colds is prevention. Start by washing your hands often. Throw away old tissues as not to spread germs. Keep away from infected persons as much as possible. Never touch anything used by them. Don't cover your coughs and sneezes with hands. It will only spread germs. If you get sick, drink plenty of fluids and get rest.

Symptoms

1. Sore throat
2. Sneezing
3. Headache
4. Coughing
5. Runny nose
6. Fever

Prevention

1. Wash hands frequently
2. Avoid people with colds
3. Disinfect objects like door handles, stair rails and telephones
4. Healthy diet

Disclaimer

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have a Common Cold, please consult your doctor.

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