Common Cold Information

Common Cold Information

This information is about the common cold. You'll learn what it is and how to deal with its symptoms.

The common cold is an infection of the upper respiratory passages -- the nose, throat, and sinuses. Symptoms include stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, a cough, aching and fatigue, and just a general sick feeling. Sometimes, a cold is accompanied by fever. The symptoms may last from one day to several weeks.

Here's how to treat a cold. First, you need to understand that no one can cure the illness itself. Antibiotics such as penicillin don't work on colds because they kill only bacteria, and a cold is caused by a virus. There's nothing that can be prescribed that will fight the illness itself. Only your body's defenses can do that.

You can help your body fight a cold in two important ways. First, get as much rest as possible. Do light activities if you need to, but rest as soon as you get tired. You may need to stay home from work, especially if you have a job that requires a lot of physical activity. Secondly, drink plenty of clear fluids like water, apple juice and clear soups. Seven-Up is good too. Clear fluids replace lost moisture in your body and they help loosen secretions. If your nose and mouth still feel too dry -- or if the mucous is still too thick, try using a humidifier.

If you smoke, stop. Smoke irritates your nose, throat, and chest -- and it could produce a severe chest infection later.

While your body fights the illness, you can reduce the symptoms. For congestion and coughing, cough syrups such as Robitussin-DM may help. They can be bought without prescription. If your throat is sore, use cough drops, gargles, or hard candies.

For stuffy, runny nose without a cough, you may get good results from non-prescription medications like Sinutabs or Coricidin D.

For fever and pain, adults can take aspirin or Tylenol every four hours. But for children under 19, avoid aspirin, because it increases risk of a serious illness called Reye's Syndrome. Give a child aspirin-free medications containing acetaminophen, such as Tylenol.

Usually, when you have a cold, you know it's a cold. But occasionally, cold-like symptoms may indicate other problems. If you have a fever over 101 degrees for three days or more, contact your health care provider. Call if a dry cough lasts more than two to three weeks, or if after 2 weeks the cough becomes wet and produces yellow or green sputum, or if you continue to have sinus drainage. You should also get medical help if you develop a severe earache, chest pain, and/or shortness of breath.

But remember: Nothing can be prescribed to cure the common cold. Only your body can do that, with your help.

Colds are spread through coughing, sneezing and nasal drainage. If you are coughing or sneezing, it may be wise to avoid contact with the general public, especially at work or at school. Protect others by covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Be sure to wash your hands after touching your nose or mouth and after blowing your nose.

Please remember these key points:

The only effective treatment for a cold is plenty of rest and fluids.
Cough syrup, decongestants, and pain relievers can reduce the symptoms, but do not give aspirin to children.
If fever and cough don't begin to improve after three days, call your doctor for advice.

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