A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W

COMMON COLD

What is a Common Cold ?

Colds are caused mainly by two groups of viruses called rhinoviruses and coronaviruses. The number of attacks of colds varies from season to season. Most occur in the winter months. The spread of colds occurs mainly in the home and at school. Young children pick up the virus at school, bring it home and pass it on to the family. The way these cold viruses spread is not clear. Possible ways of catching a cold from another person include direct contact or breathing in infected material from their nose or mouth. One to two days later, the patient has a red runny nose, scratchy throat , sneezing and a cough. In most cases the diagnosis is made by the patient himself, as the symptoms are so typical.

How does a Common Cold occur ?

The virus attacks the lining of the nose and throat, which leads to swelling of these areas. More mucus is also produced as result of the inflammation.

Why does a Common Cold occur ?

Young children have an above average number of colds, while the elderly have below average. This is because each cold helps the body to make antibodies. Antibodies are chemicals in the blood which build up over the years, helping to give people some protection against the virus.

Treatment Involved for a Common Cold

At present, there is no cure for the common cold either in the form of tablets or vaccine. However, there are ways to deal with nasal and throat complaints. Decongestants are medicines which can be either nose drops or spray, or tablets. These work by reducing both the swelling and the amount of mucus. A teaspoon of salt in warm water works well to ease a sore throat: some people find a soluble aspirin in warm water even better. Both are used as gargles two to three times a day. A steam inhalation is also helpful, especially at bed-time. These viruses do not respond to antibiotics.

During Treatment for a Common Cold

Symptoms usually settle within 3 to 6 days. Decongestant tablets can cause palpitations. They should be avoided in people with known heart problems. Prolonged use (more than seven days) of nasal decongestant sprays is a hazard. Your nose may become dependent on them! They should be stopped as soon as the cold symptoms have settled. Antihistamines may also help but take care as they can cause drowsiness. This can be aggravated by alcohol. It is better not to drive and to avoid alcohol while on antihistamines. Some antihistamines have less sedative effect.

After Treatment for a Common Cold

A few patients develop sinusitis which is an infection of the air cavities within the skull bones. This gives headache and tenderness over forehead or face. The doctor may advise regular nasal spray or even antibiotics for this complication, which may be due to bacteria. Some people, particularly children, get a middle ear infection with their colds. This is because the tube which joins the throat and ear gets blocked. Antibiotics may be needed for this too. Occasionally, patients who also have chronic bronchitis find that their cold always goes to the chest . These people may find it useful to take antibiotics at the first sign of a cold to prevent this complication. Some sufferers do not stop work or school. However, consideration for others is important. Infecting others may be such a high risk that it is worth taking a couple of days at home.

If a Common Cold is Left Untreated

Treatment only helps to lessen the symptoms and make the patient feel better. There is no cure.

Effects on Family of a Common Cold

There is really no need for all members of a family to get the same cold! Personal hygiene, especially handwashing, of both patient and his or her contacts is important. Elderly relatives or friends with chest trouble may wear surgical masks when in contact with a cold sufferer these are available from pharmacies.