Self-Care Tips For Common Cold Symptoms

A common cold is one of the most common illnesses. Children can catch it anywhere from six to eight times a year and will most likely suffer from 6 to 8 colds in their lifetime. They are generally caused by rhinoviruses, which can be transferred by airborne droplets or by direct contact with the sick person. Symptoms of the common cold usually last a week, and you can help prevent colds by washing your hands often. This is an excellent way to prevent colds.

Symptoms

The common cold is an acute illness caused by a virus that affects the nose, throat, sinuses, and upper airways. It is the most common critical illness among children and adults, with a person getting two or more colds a year. While this is common, it is essential to seek medical attention if the cold symptoms persist for more than two days. This article focuses on self-care techniques for common cold symptoms and does not replace medical advice.

Washing your hands thoroughly after touching anything is a significant first step in preventing colds. It is essential to avoid touching your face or other high-touch objects that could become infected with the virus. Similarly, sneezing can release a mist that can travel up to six feet away. You may want to try saline nasal sprays or antihistamines, which can help with your cold symptoms without the risk of harmful side effects.

Causes

Colds are minor viral infections that cause discomfort in the nose and throat. There are over 200 different types of cold viruses, but rhinovirus and respiratory syncytial virus account for most cases. While most people will only experience one cold each year, older people, infants, and young children are at high risk of getting them more than once. A cold can last anywhere from a day to several weeks. If you get a cold, you should avoid drinking caffeinated beverages and alcohol, as these dehydrate your immune system. Also, avoid eating hard, crunchy foods, as they can aggravate coughing. Most common colds are viral infections and will last for a week or two. These infections affect the nose, throat, and upper respiratory tract.

Although these treatments may seem appealing, they are based on non-clinical evidence. For instance, aspirin has been linked to Reye syndrome, a potentially fatal disorder in children. Additionally, colds can lead to secondary infections, which may require antibiotics. Finally, if you have a high fever, mucus-producing cough, or other symptoms, see your healthcare provider for an evaluation. These symptoms can be signs of more severe illnesses, and they should be seen by a physician as soon as possible.

Treatments

The good news is that there is no known cure for the common cold. Most people recover completely without any treatment within seven to ten days, though the cough and sore throat may persist for a few days longer. Common cold treatments can be self-care techniques such as taking pain relievers (like acetaminophen), humidifying the room, and using saline nasal rinses. Taking sufficient rest is also essential. As with any illness, antibiotics are useless against the cold virus and should be used only for bacterial infections.

The cold is often spread through direct hand-to-hand contact, although the virus can also be transferred to other people via coughing and sneezing. Colds are often self-diagnosed, though a doctor may order specific tests if you develop complications. The Symptom Checker is a free tool to help you identify cold symptoms. It helps determine the cause of your cold and can suggest the best treatment.

Prevention

Although the common cold has become one of the most common illnesses in the world, people do not take appropriate steps to prevent it. Although many people stay indoors during the winter and monsoon seasons, a weak immune system makes the body more susceptible to infection. Other factors that may weaken the immune system include fatigue and emotional imbalance. Prevention of the common cold should therefore be a priority for everyone. Unfortunately, however, no effective interventions can be relied upon entirely.

First and foremost, common cold prevention starts with proper hygiene. Washing your hands often, especially after touching anything contaminated by a cold virus, is very important. It is also important not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, as these may be where the cold virus is contagious. Besides, cold viruses can be carried on the personal belongings of infected people, so it is vital to stay away from such places.