Common Cold
Problem:
The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract, primarily caused
by rhinoviruses, although other viruses such as adenoviruses can also be responsible. It
spreads easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and
can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face. The
cold is more prevalent in colder months but can occur at any time of the year.
Symptoms:
1 - Runny or stuffy nose
2 - Sore throat
3 - Cough
4 - Sneezing
5 - Mild headache
6 - Fatigue
7 - Low-grade fever
Treatment
While there is no cure for the common cold, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms.
1 - Resting and staying hydrated
2 - Over-the-counter medications such as decongestants (Pseudoephedrine) and
antihistamines (Loratidine), Cough suppressants (Dextromethorphan)
3 - Throat lozenges or sprays for sore throat relief
4 - Warm fluids like tea or broth
5 - Humidifiers to ease congestion