Common Cold

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What is it?

This is an extremely common viral infection of the lining inside the upper airways including the nose and throat. It is spread by droplets in exhaled breath and by coughing and sneezing without covering the mouth or nose. Since there are numerous different varieties of common cold viruses, most people are affected several times or more per year.

What are the symptoms?

The usual complaints are general tiredness, muscular aches, headaches, slight fever, sore-throat, and running nose with watery or yellowish discharge. Cough may be caused by the backward dripping of nasal secretion into the throat.

How is it different from Influenza?

"Common Cold" (which is more common) is often wrongly referred to as "Influenza" (or the Flu) which is another more serious illness with symptoms that also include cough, sore-throat, and running nose. "Influenza" is usually accompanied by chills and high fever, in contrast to the common cold which causes only slight fever and mild upset of general well-being.

Treatment:

THERE IS NO SPECIFIC TREATMENT FOR THE COMMON COLD AND MEDICATION (INCLUDING ANTIBIOTICS) WILL NOT HASTEN RECOVERY.

You can help yourself by following SIMPLE PRINCIPLES:

• Blow your nose clear regularly, steam inhalation may help to clear your nose
• Frequent hot drinks can help to soothe your throat
• Paracetamol can be taken for fever, aches and pains
• Drink plenty of fluids, have your normal meals, and keep yourself warm (but not hot)
• Cut down your exercise or work load, and go to bed early
• DO NOT SMOKE

Warning: Aspirin should not used in children to prevent the occurrence of Reye's syndrome.

Should I see a doctor?

THERE IS NO NEED FOR A FIT HEALTHY ADULT WITH A COLD TO SEE A DOCTOR. The condition usually clears itself with a week. Sometimes slight cough due to post nasal drip and nasal discharge may last longer (especially when there is a history of nasal allergy). Nevertheless, see your doctor should you think you are developing Influenza.

Consult a doctor if:

• temperature > 38 degree Celsius or > 100.4 degree Fahrenheit
• symptoms are distressing
• you have unexpected symptoms such as earache, difficult breathing, chest pain etc.
• you have a chronic medical problem
• you have persistent discoloured or blood stained nasal discharge or sputum
• you are not beginning to get better after one week

Prevention:

• Maintain good ventilation at home and at work place
• A balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate relaxation and sleep will help to build up your body resistance
• Avoid stress or overwork, which may lower your body resistance and prolong the course of the illness
• Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to prevent spreading to others
• 'Stand By Common Cold' pack is available in UHS. Please fill in a form and pick up after one working day.

Click here to request Common Cold Stand By Pack