Common cold causes, symptoms, treatments & when to see a doctor. Plus: How to know if you have the flu or just a cold, and how to see a doctor for half-price right now
Runny nose, a sore throat and a dry cough. Is it a cold or the flu?
Let’s find out: What causes the common cold, what are the most common symptoms and treatments, how to tell a cold from the flu and know when to see a doctor for a cold.
Unlike the flu, which is caused by only one virus, the common cold is caused by a number of different viral infections. Rhinovirus is one of the main culprits for a cold, but other viruses like coronaviruses and respiratory syncytial viruses can also cause colds and cold symptoms.
These viruses spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as by touching contaminated surfaces. Colder temperatures and lower humidity in winter create favourable conditions for these viruses to thrive.
It's important to note that the common cold and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses.
What are the symptoms of a cold? Well, there are a few signs your body is fighting a cold, and they often differ from person to person, including:
Nasal congestion or a constantly runny nose is a common sign of a cold. It may be accompanied by sneezing.
A scratchy or irritated throat is another common symptom. It may make it hard to swallow and speak sometimes.
Colds can give you a mild to moderate cough. And it’s often a dry cough that doesn’t produce a lot of phlegm.
When your nose is irritated by the cold virus, a common reflex is sneezing frequently.
Some individuals experience mild headaches or sinus discomfort due to nasal congestion.
Feeling tired and experiencing mild body aches are common during a cold. However, these symptoms are typically not as bad as they are when you have the flu.
Far less common, but worth mentioning. In some cases, a slight increase in body temperature may occur during a cold.
It's important to note that these symptoms can overlap with other respiratory conditions, like allergies or the flu. If your symptoms get worse or don’t go away after a while, it's best to speak to a doctor or nurse to get a proper evaluation and guidance.
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While there is no cure for the common cold, and you can usually treat it yourself, there are some treatments that help alleviate some of the symptoms and help you feel more comfortable, including:
Getting plenty of rest allows your body to recover and can help boost your immune system's ability to fight off the cold virus.
Staying hydrated is crucial. Drink plenty of fluids, like water, herbal tea or clear broths, to soothe a sore throat and prevent dehydration.
Non-prescription medications can help relieve specific symptoms. Pain relievers can help with headaches and body aches, decongestants can help clear a blocked or stuffy nose, and cough medicines, suppressants or expectorants can help you deal with a pesky cough.
NOTE: It’s never a good idea to self-medicate (go buy medicine without asking a doctor first) if you can avoid it. You need to follow the medicine’s instructions carefully and take your general health into account, as well as whether you have any other chronic or underlying conditions.
Speaking to your pharmacist before buying OTC medicine is a good idea. But getting a prescription from a doctor is even better and safer.
Squirting a saline solution (salty water-based) can help relieve a blocked or stuffy nose, and help clear mucus from the nasal passages. They often come in squeeze bottles or nasal spray form.
Gargling with tepid salt water can soothe a sore throat and help it feel less scratchy.
Machines like humidifiers and vaporisers help add moisture to the air, which can help clear a blocked nose and soothe your throat and nose a bit – if you have such devices.
These can temporarily relieve sore throat symptoms and provide a soothing effect.
It's important to note that antibiotics are not effective against viral infections like the common cold. And, though many believe herbal supplements and vitamin C can help, there’s little actual evidence they work for the common cold.
If your symptoms don’t go away, get worse or you suddenly start developing worrying new symptoms, it’s best to speak to a doctor immediately.
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Most colds typically last between 7 and 10 days. But it’s different for every person. Some people start feeling better after a day or two. For others, it can take up to two weeks to start feeling better.
Telling the difference can be tough because the flu and colds have many of the same symptoms. But there are some small differences:
Note: These are just general guidelines. Almost every person experiences it differently. Always as a doctor if you’re not sure.
You can usually treat the common cold at home. But there are certain times when it's best to see a doctor:
If your symptoms feel much worse and are accompanied by a high fever (above 38°C), severe headaches, chest pain or if you have trouble breathing, then speak to a doctor immediately.
If your cold doesn’t get better after 10 days, it might mean there’s a secondary infection. It’s best to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Colds can worsen certain pre-existing medical conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease or a weakened immune system. It’s best to get a doctor’s advice to manage and monitor these closely.
Babies, infants, pregnant mothers and elderly people are more susceptible to complications from respiratory infections. So if you’re expecting, have young children or are living with elderly people, it's best to get advice from a doctor on treatment.
If you’re unsure if it’s just a cold, or worried it might not be, that stress is also harmful. Speaking to a doctor will help set your mind at ease – which can help you recover faster
- Swollen glands in neck
- Persistent sore throat
- Fever of more than 38 C
- No cough
- Having other comorbidities
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