Common cold

What is the Common Cold?
The common cold is a viral infection of your nose and throat (upper respiratory tract).

Key Fact: It can be caused by over 100 different viruses (Rhinovirus is the most common). Because there are so many variations, you can catch colds repeatedly throughout your life.

Is it a Cold or the Flu?

The symptoms often overlap, but the intensity is different. Use this guide:

Symptom	Common Cold	The Flu (Influenza)
Onset	Gradual (over days).	Sudden (hits like a truck).
Fever	Rare or mild.	High (100°F - 102°F+).
Aches	Slight.	Severe muscle aches.
Energy	Mild fatigue.	Extreme exhaustion (can last weeks).
Sneezing	Common.	Sometimes.

⚠️ WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
Adults: Fever > 103°F (39.4°C) or severe sinus pain.
Children:

• Newborns (< 12 weeks): Any fever > 100.4°F.
• Difficulty Breathing: Wheezing or rapid breathing.
• Dehydration: Urinating less often than usual.
• Ear Pain: Persistent crying or pulling at ears.

Causes & Transmission

Viruses enter through your mouth, eyes, or nose. You catch it by:

• Droplets: Someone coughs or sneezes nearby.
• Direct Contact: Shaking hands with an infected person.
• Fomites: Touching contaminated objects (doorknobs, toys, phones) and then touching your face.

🛑 ANTIBIOTICS DO NOT WORK
Myth: "I need antibiotics to knock this cold out."
Fact: Colds are caused by Viruses. Antibiotics only kill Bacteria. Taking them for a cold will not help you get better and may cause side effects or antibiotic resistance.

Treatment: The Science of Comfort

There is no cure, but you can manage the misery. Most colds last 7–10 days.

1. Honey (Nature's Cough Syrup)

Studies suggest honey can be as effective as cough syrup for children. Give 1/2 to 1 teaspoon as needed. (Note: Never give honey to infants under 1 year due to botulism risk).

2. Chicken Soup

It’s not just an old wives' tale. Science suggests chicken soup may:

• Act as a mild anti-inflammatory.
• Speed up the movement of mucus (clearing congestion) thanks to the warm steam.

3. Saline Drops & Humidifiers

Use a cool-mist humidifier to keep nasal passages moist. For infants, use saline drops and a bulb syringe to clear a stuffy nose before feeding.

4. Medications (OTC)

• Pain Relievers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil) for aches/fever. Never give Aspirin to children/teens.
• Decongestants: Use nasal sprays for max 3 days to avoid "rebound congestion."

Prevention

• Wash Hands: Ideally for 20 seconds.
• Don't Share: Keep your cups and utensils to yourself.
• Sanitize: Wipe down high-touch surfaces like remotes and phones.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.