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 ColdsWell over 100 types of common cold viruses are known, each causing slightly different symptoms and illness of greater or lesser severity. The signs and symptoms of a cold usually begin abruptly. The first sign is often discomfort in the throat. Sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and decreased energy usually follow. If a cough develops, it can last for 2 to 3 weeks. Colds are more likely when the body's immune system is weakened. There is no evidence that cooling the body causes a cold, but feelings of stress due to cold, heat, emotions, being overly tired, and other factors can make the body more susceptible to infection. The key to treating the common cold is to make your body comfortable while it fights the infection. Only your body's defenses can fight off a cold. Because colds are caused by viruses, antibiotics are not effective against them. However, sometimes if the immune system is weakened by a cold, bacteria that normally live in the nose and throat can take the opportunity to cause a secondary infection. Such infections include ear infections, bacterial sinusitis, and bacterial bronchitis. Pain or discomfort should be treated using ibuprofen or acetaminophen, especially for a sore throat. Nasal congestion or trouble breathing can be treated with over-the-counter agents such as pseudoephedrine nasal spray. Although antibiotics do not help the common cold, they may be needed to treat or prevent secondary bacterial infections. See your doctor if you develop these signs with a cold:
Your doctor can determine if these signs mean you have something other than a simple cold. Last Updated: March 25, 2009 |