Common colds are the most common type of infectious disease suffered by humans around the world, with the average adult catching 2-3 colds per year. Originally thought to be a disease contracted from spending too much time outdoors in a cold climate (hence the name “cold”), colds are actually viral infections produced by a group of viruses (mainly rhinoviruses) that are transmitted by contact with infected people or their body fluids. By recognizing the symptoms, you can determine if you have a common cold and treat the illness effectively.

Symptoms

While the symptoms of a cold are as variable as the different viruses that cause them (over 200!), There are some consistent manifestations that will almost always occur:

Runny nose

Nasal congestion

Throat pain

Postnasal drip

Cough

Other symptoms that are also common in colds but are not as common include:

· Tired

Pain in the muscles and joints.

Headache

Loss of appetite

Many of these symptoms are also common manifestations of other illnesses, primarily the flu. However, colds can often be distinguished from the flu by the form and severity of the symptoms. For example, while a cough and high fever are relatively common manifestations of the common cold, these symptoms when present together in adults are highly indicative of the flu. Also, symptoms of a cold usually begin with a feeling of chills, headache, and sneezing, followed within days by postnasal drip, congestion, headache, and low-grade fever. Symptoms generally peak within 2-4 days after onset and tend to resolve within 7-10 days.

Types of colds

The common cold often spreads to other areas of the head and respiratory tract. These colds are classified according to where they occur:

Head Cold – The most common type of cold, characterized by a runny nose, congestion, postnasal drip, cough, sneezing, sore throat, fatigue, and low-grade fever.

Chest Cold: Chest cold refers to an expansion of cold symptoms into the upper respiratory tract. It is characterized by a persistent and worsening cough, laryngitis, pharyngitis, fever, and can even spread to bronchitis (lower respiratory infection). A chest cold can last up to 25 days after infection.

Sinus infection: A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is when the viral infection lodges in the sinuses and persists after the cold has passed. Sinus infections are characterized by pain and swelling in the mouth, nose, cheeks, and behind the eyes and eyebrows. This can be accompanied by persistent congestion and postnasal drip, sore throat, and moderate fever.

Common colds can usually be self-diagnosed and managed through home care. Most home remedies involve treatments to alleviate common cold symptoms. Treatments include steam baths, hot teas and other beverages, and plenty of rest and fluids. However, prevention is always the best treatment. Avoid contact with sick people and keep frequently touched surfaces, such as tables and doorknobs, clean and disinfected at all times. If you think you have a cold, consider others and avoid going out during the infectious period.