Overview:
By far one of the most common diseases present, the common cold is a viral infection of the nose and the throat. Unlike the flu, a common cold can be brought on by various causes. Usually, the disease is mild and gets resolved within two weeks.
Due to the many viruses that can cause a common cold, chances of it returning are high but they can be treated easily.
What are the various causes of a common cold?
The causes of the common cold are the various viruses that are present around us. They include:
- Rhinoviruses (around 50% of common colds stem from this virus)
- Human parainfluenza virus
- Human metapneumovirus
- Coronaviruses adenovirus
- Human respiratory syncytial virus
- Enterovirus
What are the symptoms of a common cold?
A common cold triggers the release of chemicals making the blood vessels leak causing our mucous glands to work harder to heal us.
Common symptoms include:
- Dry throat
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Mild fever
- Sneezing
- Hoarse voice
- Blocked noise
- Mild headache
Rarer symptoms include:
- Muscle aches
- Shivering
- Pink eye
- Weakness
- Reduction in appetite
- Extreme exhaustion
Any organs affected?
A common cold leads to an infection in the upper respiratory system. Due to this, the organs that get affected are the nose, throat, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs.
Prevention/Treatment:
While it isn’t possible to completely avoid getting a common cold, certain preventive measures can be taken to ensure a healthier life. Preventive measures include:
- Drink plenty of fluids and keep well hydrated, being dehydrated when infected with a cold can make symptoms worse.
- Get plenty of bed rest; it is important to get as much sleep/rest as possible while the immune system is fighting off the virus.
- Take aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen to relieve headache or fever. Do not give aspirin to children under 16.
- Some people find that inhaling steam helps ease the symptoms of nasal congestion.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001698
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/166606.php
No Comments
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.