The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract, especially during the winter months. This discomfort, which usually starts in the nose and throat, manifests itself with symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and mild fever. There are more than 200 types of viruses that cause the common cold, but the most common are rhinoviruses. The infection is transmitted by spreading viruses through the air or by direct contact. It is usually mild and resolves on its own within a few days; however, if symptoms persist or become severe, medical attention may be necessary.
What causes colds?
The common cold, or the common cold, is a viral upper respiratory tract infection that affects the nose, throat, sinuses, and trachea and spreads quite easily. The most common cause of this condition is rhinoviruses. Rhinoviruses usually enter the body through the mouth, eyes, or nose. The routes of transmission are:
- Virus droplets spread through the air when a sick person coughs, sneezes or talks,
- Close contact with someone who has a cold,
- Sharing objects that have come into contact with the virus, such as towels, toys or phones,
- Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth after contact with the virus.
This infection, which is quite common in children, is also seen in adults. Colds are usually mild and go away on their own, but appropriate measures can be taken to relieve symptoms and speed up the healing process.
What are the symptoms and treatment of cold?
The common cold is a common viral infection that can manifest itself with a variety of symptoms. It is usually characterized by the following symptoms:
- Runny or stuffy nose: Nasal congestion or copious discharge may occur.
- Recurrent sneezing: Frequent sneezing can be an uncomfortable symptom.
- Sore throat: A feeling of discomfort or pain in the throat may be experienced.
- Low grade fever: A low-grade fever may often occur.
- Cough: A cough may develop due to irritation in the larynx.
- Watering eyes: Watering of the eyes and slight redness may occur.
- Body aches and pains: Muscle and body aches may be accompanied by a general feeling of malaise.
- Hoarseness: Discomfort in the throat can cause hoarseness.
- Shivering and chills: Body tremors and a feeling of cold may be experienced.
- Loss of appetite: There may be a decrease in the desire to eat.
- Difficulty breathing: Breathing may become difficult due to nasal congestion.
- Earache: In some cases, mild pain may also be felt in the ears.
If the cold is mild, simple painkillers, cold medicines and nasal decongestants are usually used to support the treatment process. Additionally, vitamin supplements can help strengthen the immune system.
However, if the cold becomes more severe and the patient develops complications such as bronchitis, sinusitis, or middle ear infection, antibiotic treatment may be required.
What is good for colds (flu)?
Effective methods against colds are:
- Keeping the body adequately hydrated with water-based drinks.
- Drinking hot herbal teas such as sage, echinacea, mint-lemon, and green tea.
- Chicken broth or meat soups are good for colds.
- Getting enough rest and sleep.
- Breathing in steam or taking a hot shower can help relieve respiratory problems.
- Applying salt water to the nose and gargling may relieve a sore throat.
- A mixture of lemon, honey, and black pepper can soothe a cough.
- Using lozenges to relieve a sore throat.
- Eating garlic can support immunity.
- Drinking ginger and honey or cinnamon and honey milk can provide soothing effects.
- Vitamin C supplements can strengthen the immune system.
- Drinking warm lemon water can soothe the throat and energize the body.
How many days does it take for a cold to go away?
Colds usually get better within a week with rest and home remedies. However, if symptoms persist for more than a week or become severe, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. This can help prevent possible complications and determine the appropriate treatment methods.