Common Cold Symptoms: Common Cold Causes & Common Cold Treatment
The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract, leading to symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, and a sore throat. Understanding the common cold symptoms and common cold causes is key to managing them effectively. While there is no cure, you can learn how to treat the common cold at home by resting, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter medications for relief. Practicing good common cold self-care can help alleviate discomfort and speed up recovery.
The signs and symptoms of a common cold vary, but they are generally mild. Knowing the types of common colds can help you choose the right common cold treatment and get back to feeling better.
This blog will be your guide to knowing the symptoms of the common cold, what are the cause and what is the common cold treatment.
What is the Common Cold?
The common cold is a viral upper respiratory infection affecting the nose, throat, sinuses, and windpipe (trachea). The common cold meaning refers to a viral infection, most often caused by the rhinovirus, though over 200 different viruses can be responsible. Contrary to the belief that the common cold is solely a coronavirus, it can stem from various virus types. Due to its widespread nature, it’s called common, with most people experiencing more colds than any other illness.
Causes of Common Cold
The primary common cold cause is by viruses, with rhinoviruses responsible for up to 50% of cases. There are more than 100 different rhinoviruses, which often invade the body during early fall, spring, and summer, leading to 10%–40% of cold occurrences. In addition to rhinoviruses, other viruses such as coronaviruses, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and parainfluenza can also cause cold symptoms.
When a virus enters the body, the immune system works to combat it. In individuals with a strong immune system, symptoms may not develop. However, if the immune system struggles to fight off the virus, signs of infection will appear, leading to the familiar symptoms associated with the common cold.
Signs and Symptoms of Common Cold
Once exposed to a cold-causing virus, common cold symptoms typically appear within 1 to 3 days. These symptoms usually develop gradually rather than suddenly.
Nasal Symptoms:
- Congestion
- Sinus pressure
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Loss of smell or taste
- Sneezing
- Watery nasal secretions
- Postnasal drip
Head Symptoms:
- Watery eyes
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Swollen lymph nodes
Whole Body Symptoms:
- Fatigue or general tiredness
- Chills
- Body aches
- Low-grade fever (below 102°F or 38.9°C)
- Chest discomfort
- Difficulty breathing deeply
Common cold symptoms usually last between 7 to 10 days, peaking around day 5 before gradually improving. If symptoms worsen after a week or persist beyond 10 days, it may be a sign of a different condition, and medical advice should be sought.
Types of Common Cold
The common cold can be categorized into different types based on the viruses responsible for the infection and the symptoms presented. Understanding these types can help in identifying and managing the condition effectively.
| Type of Common Cold | Cause | Symptoms |
| Rhinovirus Cold | Primarily caused by rhinoviruses, which account for approximately 30-50% of cold cases. | Common symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, and mild cough. |
| Coronavirus Cold | Caused by various strains of coronaviruses. | Symptoms are similar to those of rhinovirus colds but may also involve fever and chills. |
| Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Cold | This virus is particularly common in young children and can lead to more serious respiratory illnesses. | Symptoms may include cough, wheezing, and difficulty breathing, in addition to typical cold signs. |
| Parainfluenza Virus Cold | Commonly affects children and can cause croup. | Symptoms typically include a harsh cough, fever, and nasal congestion. |
| Adenovirus Cold | Caused by adenoviruses, which can also lead to conjunctivitis and gastrointestinal issues. | Symptoms often consist of a sore throat, fever, and respiratory problems. |
| Enterovirus Cold | Typically affects children and is more prevalent during the summer and fall. | Common symptoms include a sore throat, runny nose, and sometimes gastrointestinal issues. |
Identifying these types of colds can assist in understanding the nature of the infection and choosing suitable treatment options.
Diagnosis and Tests
A healthcare provider will begin by inquiring about your symptoms and conducting a physical examination. During this examination, they will look for various signs, including:
- Swelling in the nostrils
- Nasal congestion
- A red or irritated throat
- Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck
- Clear lung sounds
To diagnose the common cold, a physical exam is generally sufficient. However, if the provider suspects the presence of COVID-19, influenza, or another illness, additional tests may be necessary. In such cases, a nasal swab test may be performed, where a cotton swab is gently rubbed inside your nose to check for specific viruses. A chest X-ray can also be utilized to rule out other conditions, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
Prevention of Common Cold
Although it's nearly impossible to completely avoid catching the common cold, there are several prevention tips you can take to reduce the risk:
- Wash your hands frequently: Washing hands with soap and water is the best way to prevent the spread of cold viruses. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available. Teach children the importance of hand hygiene as well.
- Avoid touching your face: You can get a cold through your eyes, nose, or mouth. Avoid touching your face, especially after being in public or near someone with a cold.
- Keep your environment clean: Frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, keyboards, and countertops can harbor viruses. Clean these areas regularly to prevent transmission.
- Maintain distance from sick people: If someone around you has a cold, try to avoid close contact with them. Stay home when you are sick to avoid spreading the infection.
- Boost your immune system: Get adequate sleep, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and exercise regularly to strengthen your body’s defense against infections.
- Stay hydrated and avoid smoking: Drink plenty of fluids to keep your body healthy. Avoid smoking, as it can weaken your respiratory system, making you more vulnerable to colds.
By following these precautions, you can significantly reduce your chances of getting a cold and help protect others around you.
Treatment and Management of Common Cold
There is no cure for the common cold, but treatment can help manage symptoms and make you more comfortable as the virus runs its course. Here are some ways to manage the cold:
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications:
- Decongestants: Help reduce nasal congestion and stuffiness.
- Antihistamines: Help with sneezing and runny nose symptoms.
- Pain relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen ease body aches, fever, and headaches.
Be cautious when taking combination cold medications to avoid overdosing on specific ingredients. If you have high blood pressure, consult a doctor before using decongestants.
Home Remedies:
- Gargling with salt water: It soothes a sore throat.
- Drinking plenty of fluids: This helps keep you hydrated and reduces congestion.
- Using vapor rub: Opens up airways and eases breathing.
- Getting enough rest: Helps your body recover.
- Zinc lozenges: May shorten the duration of a cold if taken early.
- Echinacea: This can potentially reduce the length of cold symptoms in some cases.
Although antibiotics do not work for viral infections like the common cold, managing symptoms with these remedies can help you feel better while the cold resolves naturally, usually within 7 to 10 days.
When to consult a Doctor?
Most people do not need to see a doctor for a common cold, as symptoms typically clear up within 7 to 10 days. However, some situations require medical attention.
When to Seek Medical Advice:
- Symptoms last more than 10 days: If your cold persists longer than 10 days, it may indicate a complication or another condition.
- Severe or worsening symptoms: If your symptoms, such as a cough or headache, are unusually severe or worsen over time, it's a good idea to consult a doctor.
- Difficulty breathing: If you experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical care.
- High or persistent fever: If your fever exceeds 103°F (39.4°C) or your child has a fever over 102°F (38.9°C), consult a doctor. If a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher lasts for more than three days, seek medical attention.
- Infants under 3 months: If your baby is under three months old and shows signs of a cold, especially lethargy or a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
- High-risk groups: Individuals who are at higher risk of complications, such as young children, adults over 65, pregnant women, and those with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease, should consult a doctor if cold symptoms persist.
By managing these symptoms and seeking timely medical care in these situations, you can avoid complications and ensure proper treatment.
The common cold is a frequent and generally mild illness that most people experience several times throughout their lives. While it can cause discomfort with symptoms, it typically resolves on its own within 7 to 10 days.
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FAQs
How to treat the common cold at home?
To treat the common cold at home, stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, use over-the-counter medications for symptom relief, and try home remedies like saltwater gargles and steam inhalation.
Which virus causes the common cold?
The common cold is mostly caused by rhinoviruses, but it can also be caused by Coronaviruses and Adenoviruses.
How does the common cold spread?
The common cold spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face.
How can I prevent the common cold?
You can prevent the common cold by practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and not touching your face.
Is there a cure for the common cold?
There is no cure for the common cold, as it is a viral infection that must run its course, but treatments can help relieve symptoms.
