Common Cold

Common Cold: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

The common cold is an upper respiratory tract infection caused by many different viruses

Symptoms

  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Sore throat
  • Cough
  • Congestion
  • Slight body aches or a mild headache
  • Sneezing
  • Low grade fever
  • Generally feeling unwell (malaise)

Causes

Although many types of viruses can cause a common cold, rhinoviruses are the most common culprit.

A cold virus enters your body through your mouth, eyes or nose. The virus can spread through droplets in the air when someone who is sick coughs, sneezes or talks.

It also spreads by hand-to-hand contact with someone who has a cold or by sharing contaminated objects, such as utensils, towels, toys or telephones. If you touch your eyes, nose or mouth after such contact or exposure, you’re likely to catch a cold.

Treatment

There’s no cure for the common cold. Antibiotics are of no use against cold viruses and shouldn’t be used unless there’s a bacterial infection. Treatment is directed at relieving signs and symptoms.

Prevention

  • Wash your hands
  • Disinfect your stuff (kitchen and bathroom countertops)
  • Use tissues
  • Don’t share your things (glass of water, utensils)
  • Avoid close contact
  • Eat well

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