Almost everyone has had a cold, and for most of us, it’s a nuisance. The common cold is an upper-respiratory infection caused by a virus. While there are over 200 viruses that can cause a cold, the rhinovirus is the most common culprit.

Transmission of the Cold

A cold virus is highly contagious and can be spread in several ways. The most common way is through contact with an infected person.

If a person with a cold sneezes or coughs, tiny droplets of saliva can land on someone else’s mouth, nose or eyes, leading to infection. Touching something that has been contaminated by a cold virus and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes can also cause infection. The virus can survive on surfaces such as doorknobs and countertops for up to 24 hours.

Symptoms of a Cold

Once you are infected with a cold virus, it can take 1-3 days for symptoms to appear. The most common symptoms of a cold include:.

Runny nose
Congestion
Sneezing
Sore throat
Cough
Mild headache
Mild body aches
Low-grade fever (less than 101°F)

You may feel tired and listless, but these symptoms should last only a few days to a week.

Treatment for a Cold

There is no cure for a cold, but treatments are aimed at reducing symptoms. Over-the-counter cold remedies may help relieve some of the symptoms, such as pain relievers, decongestants, and cough suppressants.

Plenty of rest and fluids can also help, as well as gargling with warm saltwater to soothe a sore throat. People with a cold should stay home from work or school to avoid spreading the virus to others.

Preventing the Cold

The best way to avoid getting a cold is by practicing good hand hygiene. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after touching public surfaces. Avoid touching your face, especially your mouth, nose, and eyes.

Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs and countertops. Avoid close contact with people who have a cold.

Cold vs. Flu

While the symptoms of the cold and flu can be similar, they are caused by different viruses. In general, the flu is a more severe illness than the cold and can lead to complications such as pneumonia.

Flu symptoms tend to come on more suddenly and can include high fever, headache, and body aches.

When to See a Doctor

Most people can recover from a cold without seeing a doctor, but there are certain instances where medical attention may be needed.

If you have a high fever (over 101°F), trouble breathing, chest pain, severe sore throat, or a cough that lasts longer than a week, you should see a doctor. Infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable to complications from a cold, such as pneumonia or bronchitis.

Conclusion

The common cold is a viral infection that can be easily transmitted through contact with an infected person or object. While there is no cure for a cold, symptoms can be treated with over-the-counter remedies and plenty of rest and fluids.

Washing your hands frequently and practicing good hand hygiene can help prevent the spread of the virus.