Cold (common cold)

Reviewed by Dr Stuart Crisp, paediatric specialist registrar

What is a cold?

A cold is a contagious viral disease which infects the soft lining (mucous membrane) of the nose. There are more than 100 different viruses which can result in a cold. The characteristic symptom is a runny nose.

Usually, it is a mild condition, recovery taking place within about a week. However, sometimes the same symptoms occur with other illnesses like influenza.

It is most common during the cold winter months and affects children and adults of all ages. Most people will catch a cold two to four times a year.

How do we catch a cold?

A person is contagious from the day before the illness breaks out until one to three days after they feel better. The infection is spread by airborne droplets when the sufferer coughs or sneezes.

It can also be spread by hand if someone has the virus on their hands and then puts them close to their eyes or nose. This is possibly the most common way of catching a cold.

What are the symptoms of a cold?

A sore throat.

There may be pain on swallowing.

Sneezing.

The nose begins to run with a water-like secretion which gradually becomes thicker and more yellow.

As the mucous membrane of the nose swells it may be hard to breathe through the nose.

An oppressive feeling in the ears.

Headache.

Coughing.

A feeling of being unwell.

A high temperature. Children are more likely to run a temperature than adults.

What can you do to avoid catching a cold?

If possible, stay away from people with colds.

Avoid crowded places where the risk of infection is greater.

Do not touch your nose or eyes after being in physical contact with somebody that has a cold.

Wash your hands thoroughly, especially after blowing your nose.

Keep rooms well aired.

How does the doctor make a diagnosis?

Consultations with a doctor are unnecessary, unless the cold causes other infections.

Outlook

Usually a common cold causes no serious trouble and symptoms will clear up in one to two weeks. Possible complications include inflammation of the eyes, sinusitis, inflammation of the middle ear, tonsillitis, and pneumonia. The reason for these complications may be that a germ infects the irritated mucous membrane.

How do you treat a cold ?

There is no effective way of treating an ordinary cold. If the sufferer has no other diseases than the common cold, and it goes away in one to two weeks, there is no reason to see a doctor. Since a cold is caused by a virus, antibiotics are not appropriate.

Symptoms such as cough, sore throat, nasal congestion and headache can be relieved by a variety of over-the-counter medicines. You can get advice from a pharmacist about which are most suitable for you and your symptoms.

There is no need to reduce daily activities but you should expect to become tired more easily.

The symptoms can be relieved by warm drinks.

Nasal decongestants may ease breathing.

Sleep with the head on a high pillow.

Avoid smoking; it irritates the mucous membrane of the nose further.

Throw away paper tissues after use to prevent the spread of infection.

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