Colds are viral infections of the upper respiratory tract that spread from person to person. There are over 200 cold-causing viruses, making it extremely difficult to develop a vaccination.
Adults will experience two to three colds per year, with most people recovering within a few days. However, the symptoms can still be unpleasant and knowing how to properly treat the common cold can get you back to living a healthy life.
Diagnosing the common cold
Because the symptoms of the cold are so similar to other respiratory conditions, like a sinus infection, it can be difficult to know what to look. In general, the symptoms of the cold include:
- Cough
- Mucous running down the back of your throat (post-nasal drip)
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Sneezing
In most cases, colds can be self-diagnosed at home based on these and other symptoms.
Treating the common cold
The common cold is caused by a virus so it can’t be treated with antibiotics. The best treatment is rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications to lessen the impact of symptoms.
Because most colds run their course, usually a patient won’t need to see a doctor. However, medical attention should be sought if adults have a fever higher than 101.3°F or a fever lasting more than five days.
Also, if you experience shortness of breath, wheezing or severe sinus pain, then it’s also important to be examined by a primary care physician. In these cases, the doctor may order an X-ray to check the lungs.
For children under the age of 12 weeks, seek medical attention if they have a fever of 100.4°F or higher. For children of any age, call the doctor if they:
- Experience severe symptoms, ear pain, or unusual fussiness or drowsiness
- Have a fever lasting more than two days
- Have a fever that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter fever reducers
To learn more about the common, visit loyolamedicine.org/common-cold.