The common cold is one of the most prevalent types of diseases that people are exposed to. It is a mild one that usually does not affect normal life, rendering it uncomfortable, tired, and absent on work or school days. Most of the cases are caused by rhinovirus infection and it mainly infects the upper respiratory tract. Though the common cold normally clears itself, the causes, symptoms, and the measures to prevent it can ensure that the effects are reduced and the process can be fast-tracked.


What Is the Common Cold (Rhinovirus)?

A common cold is a throat and nose viral infection. Most of the cases are caused by rhinoviruses, but other viruses may also lead to identical symptoms. The major symptoms of the common cold are:


  • The upper respiratory system is mostly affected.
  • Symptoms are normally mild to moderate.
  • The recovery usually takes place after 7-10 days.
  • It is viral and thus there is no effect of antibiotics.

Since rhinoviruses replicate and mutate easily, immunity following a single cold infection is not complete against infection in the future.


What Causes the Common Cold?

Rhinoviruses and their exposure to viruses are the major cause of the common cold. The body is infected by these viruses by mouth, nose or eyes. Typical methods of rhinovirus transmission are:


  • Transmission by coughing or sneezing Rhinovirus.
  • Handling dirty surfaces and then touching the face.
  • Close physical proximity with an infected individual.
  • Splitting knives and towels, or personal things.

Cold viruses grow effectively in places with overcrowding, and schools, offices, and transportation are the usual triggers of the virus.


Signs and Symptoms of a Common Cold

The symptoms normally appear one to three days after the exposure. The degree differs according to the immunity and general health. The symptoms of common cold include:


  • Nose clear and runny nose.
  • Pharyngeal sore throat, particularly during the initial stages.
  • Sneezing
  • Mild headache
  • Fatigue
  • Low-grade fever (more prevalent in children)

The symptoms of stages of common cold, which can be used to manage expectations:


  • Early phase: Throat and sneezing: scratchy.
  • Peak stage: Congestion and runny nose
  • Recovery phase: Slow reduction of symptoms.

How Is the Common Cold Diagnosed?

In the majority of the cases, the diagnosis can be made on the basis of symptoms only. Unless complications are suspected, rarely laboratory tests are necessary. Doctors may evaluate:


  • Duration and severity of the symptoms.
  • Presence of fever
  • Breathing difficulty
  • Causes of underlying illnesses.

Cold symptoms could be similar to flu and allergies, therefore, medical consultations are advised in case of worsening and persistence of symptoms.


Read More: Does Echinacea Help with Colds?


Treatment Options for the Common Cold

Common cold does not have a cure, but it has treatments that alleviate the symptoms and aid in recovery. The common cold treatment options include:


  • Nonprescription pain relievers.
  • Naresaline nasal congestants.
  • Sneezing and runny nose antihistamines.
  • Saccharine lozenges in the throat.

They should not take antibiotics, unless a bacterial infection has been developed.


Home Care Tips for Faster Recovery

Recovery time would be greatly reduced with proper rest and care at home. Treated with the help of home remedies for common cold such as:


  • Consumption of warm liquids like herbal teas.
  • Getting adequate sleep
  • Relieving congestion with steam inhalation.
  • Rinsing the throat with salt water.
  • Keeping indoor air humid

These techniques aid in calming down the symptoms and aid in the body defense system.


Prevention: How to avoid catching a cold?

Avoiding infection is achieved through prevention and boosting immunity. Prevention of common cold entails:


  • Washing hands frequently
  • Not coming into contact with ill persons.
  • Washing hands on common surfaces.
  • Touching the face with unclean hands should be avoided.
  • Eating well and being hydrated.

The best defense line against cold viruses is good hygiene.


Common Cold in Children vs Adults

The common cold is a disease that occurs in children and adults, and the symptoms can be different. 


Common cold in children:

  • Increased infections per year.
  • Higher chance of fever
  • Extreme irritability and loss of appetite.

Common cold in adults:

  • Symptoms are often milder
  • There might be a little delay in recovery.
  • Fatigue is more prominent

The knowledge of differences assists caregivers in acting accordingly.


Complications of the Common Cold

Complications may arise against the norm though in a few individuals. The potential complications are:


  • Sinus infections
  • Ear infections
  • Worsening asthma symptoms
  • Secondary bacterial infections.

Individuals who have weakened immune systems are expected to watch out.


When to See a Doctor?

Medical concern is recommended in case:


  • Symptoms continue to be over 10 days.
  • Fever is high or persistent
  • It becomes hard to breathe.
  • Chest pain develops
  • The symptoms deteriorate rather than improve.

Early assessment can be used to eliminate more serious diseases.


Conclusion

One of the well-known, yet disruptive diseases is the common cold that is most likely to be caused by the rhinovirus infection. It has a tendency to recover on its own, but the proper management of the symptoms, rest and preventive measures could make things easier. The timely detection of the symptoms and good hygiene will make people reduce the number and the severity of colds and avoid infection of other people.


Please book an appointment with the best General Physician in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad and all major cities of Pakistan through Instacare, or call our helpline 03171777509 to find a certified doctor for your illness.