The common cold is a condition that many people experience, especially in the winter, and there's nothing pleasant about the symptoms it causes. The good news is that there are ways to prevent contracting a cold, and even though there is no cure, self-care can help alleviate the common cold's symptoms.
Causes
The common cold can be caused by over 200 different types of viruses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The most common strain is known as the rhinovirus, which causes an estimated 10 to 40% of colds. According to the CDC, Americans suffer an estimated 1 billion colds each year.
Colds are usually contracted when you come in contact with objects carrying the virus--for example, touching a surface like a doorknob that's been touched by someone who has a cold. When this happens, the virus attacks the lining of your nose, and the body sends in white blood cells to fight the infection. This causes the inflammation and mucus that are associated with the common cold. Contrary to popular myth, getting too cold or being out in the rain do not cause the common cold.
Symptoms
Signs of the common cold include sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, clear, yellow, or green mucus, coughing, itchy or watery eyes, and mild headache or body ache.
Prevention
The best way to avoid contracting the common cold is by practicing good hygiene, particularly washing your hands frequently. Avoid people who are sneezing and have other cold symptoms to avoid contracting their germs. If you aren't feeling well, stay home until your symptoms have abated.
You're also less susceptible to catching a cold if you're in good health, so eat nutritiously, drink plenty of water, and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol to bolster your natural immunity.
Treatment
Rest and over-the-counter medications to treat symptoms are the best ways to overcome the common cold. Self-care methods include drinking plenty of fluids and using a humidifier. If you smoke, avoid smoking while you are experiencing a cold, as it can make symptoms worse. Decongestants, pain relievers, and saline nasal spray are all effective in helping to alleviate cold symptoms.
Because the cold is caused by a virus, antibiotics will not help. However, if you experience a high fever coupled with symptoms that last longer than 10 days or are not alleviated by over-the-counter medications, you may have a bacterial infection and should see your doctor.
