How to Treat a Cold

What is Common Cold?

Cold, also referred to as common cold, is an upper respiratory tract disease caused due to the infection by virus. There are about 200 strains of virus that have the potential to cause common cold. Majority of the viral strains that are responsible for causing cold belong to rhinoviruses and coronaviruses. Cold is reported as one of the most frequently occurring health problems worldwide. In fact, every individual suffers from cold at some point of his life.

The cold virus affects the nose and throat, resulting in various symptoms. The noticeable signs of common cold are runny nose, cough, sneezing, sore throat and congestion. Other cold symptoms watery eyes, headache, muscle weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite and whole body discomfort. The symptoms of cold may vary from one individual to another depending upon the viral strain that causes cold and the general health of the person. Let's take a look at the effective ways to treat and prevent a cold.

How to Treat a Common Cold?

Cold is rarely life-threatening or fatal. Usually, a patient suffering from cold recovers on his/her own within 7-10 days. If the cold symptoms retain for a prolonged period (more than two weeks), then it is advisable to consult a doctor. Cold is highly contagious, hence prompt treatment is necessary, particularly if there are kids. As of today, there is no specific cure for the common cold. Nevertheless, there are certain treatment options for cold, which are effective for combating common cold symptoms.

The treatments options for cold are advocated with respect to the manifested symptoms. In simpler terms, the doctor may prescribe pain killers to those with sore throat, headache and body pain. On the other hand, cough syrups are effective for getting relief from disturbing coughs. The physician may also recommend usage of decongestants in proper dosage to clear blocked nose. One word of advice regarding cold medications is about their possible side effects, which include dizziness, insomnia and stomach upset. It is also to be noted that cold treatments differ for children and adults. Thus, the administration of drugs and medications should be done with proper medical supervision.

In addition to therapeutic interventions for the treatment of cold, there are certain common cold remedies that can be practiced at home. Some of the effective natural ways to deal with cold symptoms are getting sufficient rest, gargling to soothe sore throat, drinking ample amounts of fluids, adjusting the room temperature to a comfortable level, using saline nasal drops and having steam bath. Follow these natural tips in order to make yourself more comfortable during a cold infection.

How to Prevent Cold

Cold is highly contagious and it is quite possible that kids get infected with the virus, particularly when they come in contact with the infected people. As the viral strains for causing cold are many, there is no appropriate vaccine to protect from cold infection. As far as prevention of cold is concerned, taking precautionary steps will help in minimizing the chances of infection.

Preventive measures to tackle cold infection include avoiding contact with an infected person, frequent washing of hands, avoiding sharing of common items (towels, clothes and eating utensils) and covering mouse and nose with tissues while coughing or sneezing. During winter months, make sure that you wear warm comfortable clothes. You can also refer to the tips on how to get rid of a cold. With these easy to follow ways to prevent cold, you can protect yourself from common cold infections.