Colds are a very common ailment. A
trip to your doctor's office isn't always necessary, and colds usually clear up
in 3 to 4 days.
The majority of colds are caused
by a virus, which is a type of germ. A cold can be caused by a wide variety of
viruses. Your symptoms will vary depending on which virus you have. common cold medicine
The following are some of the most
common cold symptoms:
- Fever and chills (100°F [37.7°C] or higher)
- Headache, muscle aches, and extreme tiredness
- Stuffy noses, runny nose, yellow or green snot, and sneezing are common nasal symptoms.
- Throat irritation
- COVID-19 symptoms may be similar to those of a common cold. If you think you might be at risk for COVID-19, talk to your doctor.
While treating your symptoms will
not cure your cold, it will make you feel better. When it comes to treating a
common cold, antibiotics are almost never necessary.
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and
acetaminophen (Tylenol) help to reduce fever and relieve muscle pain. common cold medicine kids
- Aspirin should be avoided at all costs.
- Make sure you're getting the right dosage by looking at the label.
- If you need to take these medications more than four times a day or for more than two or three days, contact your healthcare provider.
Adults and older children may
benefit from over-the-counter (OTC) cold and cough medications. common cold test kit
They are not suitable for children
under the age of six. Before giving your child over-the-counter cold medicine,
which can have serious side effects, consult your doctor.
- Coughing is a natural way for your body to clear mucus from your lungs. Cough syrups should only be used when your cough has become unbearable.
- For a sore throat, use throat lozenges or sprays.
The several coughs and cold
medicines you buy contain multiple medications. Make sure you read the labels
to ensure you don't take too much of anyone's medicine. If you're on
prescription medication for another condition, ask your doctor which
over-the-counter cold medicines are safe for you. common cold tea
Drink plenty of water, get plenty
of rest, and avoid secondhand smoke.
- If you have asthma, wheezing is a common symptom of a cold.
- If you're wheezing, use your quick-relief inhaler as directed.
- If it becomes difficult to breathe, see your doctor right away.
The common cold is treated with a
variety of home remedies. Vitamin C, zinc supplements, and echinacea are among
Most home remedies are safe for
most people, even if they haven't been proven to be effective:
- Several other remedies may cause allergic reactions or side effects.
- Certain remedies have the potential to alter the way other medications work.
- Before attempting any herbs or supplements, talk to your doctor.
Keeping Colds from Spreading
Hands should be washed frequently.
This is the most effective way to prevent the spread of germs.
To properly wash your hands,
follow these steps:
- For 20 seconds, rub soap onto wet hands. Make sure to get between your toes and under your fingernails. Using a clean paper towel, dry your hands and turn off the faucet.
- Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can also be used. Apply a dime-sized amount to your hands and rub until they are dry.
To help prevent colds, even more,
try the following:
- When you're sick, stay at home.
- Instead of coughing or sneezing into the air, cough or sneeze into a tissue or the crook of your elbow.
When Should You See a Doctor?
First, try treating your cold at
home. If you have: Call your provider or go to the emergency room right away if
- Breathing problems
- Chest pain or abdominal pain that comes on suddenly
- Dizziness that comes on suddenly
- Strange behavior
- Severe vomiting that refuses to stop
- Also contact your service provider if:
- You begin to act strangely.
- After 7 to 10 days, your symptoms worsen or do not improve.
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