What You Need To Know About The Common Cold

The common cold is a widespread respiratory illness that affects millions of people each year. It’s so common that children may get it 5 to 10 times a year, while adults can get it 2 to 4 times a year. A cold is more often considered a minor inconvenience and is significantly less severe than the flu (Influenza).

Symptoms

Recognising the symptoms of a cold is essential for early intervention and better management of symptoms, including:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
  
• Sore throat
  
• Coughing (typically a dry or mild cough)
  
• Mild headache
  
• Fatigue or tiredness
  
• Mild body aches
  
• Watery eyes
  

Causes

The common cold is primarily caused by viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most prevalent. These viruses are highly contagious and can be easily transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets.

• Direct contact: with an infected person, such as shaking hands, hugging, and kissing.
• Indirect contact: by touching contaminated surfaces or objects, such as buttons and door handles, and then touching your face, especially your nose, eyes, or mouth.
  
• Airborne transmission: by inhaling respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
  

Prevention

It is almost impossible to completely avoid exposure to the viruses that cause the common cold. However, taking preventative measures can significantly reduce the chance of infection and transmission:

• Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public places, using the restroom, or touching surfaces that may be contaminated. Alcohol-based hand sanitisers are also an alternative.
• Avoid close contact with infected individuals including hugging, shaking hands, kissing or sharing personal items. If you have a cold, minimize contact with others to prevent transmission.
  
• Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands as viruses can enter your body through eyes, nose, and mouth.
  
• Keep your surroundings clean to minimise the presence of cold viruses on commonly touched surfaces
  
• Boosting immune system by eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, getting enough sleep, and managing stress
  

Diagnosis

A healthcare practitioner would be able to diagnose a common cold through a physical examination and review of medical history and symptoms. Lab tests are generally unnecessary unless symptoms persist or worsen over an extended period of time, or complications arise.

Treatment

Common colds usually resolve on their own within a week or two. They are viral infections, meaning antibiotics will be ineffective. Treatment options are aimed to alleviate symptoms and promote the recovery process:

• Rest and hydration rest allows your body to recover and fight off the virus. Staying hydrated can help prevent dehydration and soothe a sore throat.
• Over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief from symptoms such as nasal congestion, coughing, and sneezing. These medications may include decongestants, cough suppressants, expectorants, and antihistamines. However, it's important to carefully read and follow the instructions, and consulting with a healthcare practitioner can ensure safe use
  
• Saltwater gargles can help soothe a sore throat
  
• Over-the-counter relief such as cough suppressants and nasal sprays can provide temporary relief from congestion, coughing, and other respiratory symptoms.
  
• Humidifiers/steam inhalation can help moisturize and soothe irritated nasal passages, providing temporary relief from congestion.
  

Frequently Asked Questions