What Is Cold

You get cold? What to do and what is it?
Colds (also called viral upper respiratory tract infections) are the most common infections know to humans. They are caused by viruses and do not respond to antibiotics. Common symptoms of colds are:

Fever
Nasal congestion or a runny nose (the mucus from the nose can be clear or colored)
Cough
Weakness
Headache
Aching muscles
Sore throat
Watery eyes


The incubation period (time of exposure to appearance of symptoms) of the common cold is usually 1 to 4 days.

How do you treat a cold?
Rest.
Drink plenty of liquids.
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever for headache and muscle aches.
Take over-the-counter cough medicines for coughing.
Take nasal sprays and decongestants for congestion (if you are on prescription medication check with your doctor or pharmacist first).
Take throat lozenges, ice chips or throat sprays for sore throats.
To prevent the spread of your infection cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze and wash your hands a lot.
If you smoke STOP!
Antibiotic treatment does not cure colds or viral upper respiratory tract infections.

When should you see a doctor?
If symptoms worsen after 4 to 5 days or persist more then 7days.
Difficulty breathing or chest pain.
Very red sore throat with white patches.
Fever that persist more than 4 days.
Severe headache.
Persistent ear pain.
Neck pain or stiffness

How do you prevent colds?
Eat a healthy balanced diet.
Muscle exercises regularly.
Get adequate rest.
Wash your hands after being with some one who is ill.
Do not share personal items like toothpaste, drinking cups, and eating utensils with other people.
If you are over 55 years old or have chronic medical problems get a Flu shot every year in the Fall.