Common cold is one of the frequent occurring illnesses in the world leading to the skipping of daily activities.
A cold could be a minor occurrence as its health concerns could be limited, but also could affect an individual’s daily activities. Common colds such as chest and head cold could be caused by viruses.
A cold could be triggered by so many factors and its symptoms could include cough, catarrh, sore throat, frequent sneezing, feverish feeling, and the likes. All these could destabilize an individual and make him/her uncomfortable and also could make such individual stay in bed for a few days.
As stated earlier, it could keep an individual in bed for a day or two, while a flu could last for a few weeks. These colds are caused by a number of different viruses and could be contagious.
Causes of Cold
Common cold is transferred either by means of direct contact with infected secretions or by inhaling the airborne virus. This virus can live on objects such as mobile phones, keyboards, tables, pens, cups and the likes, and could be acquired when an individual comes in contact with these objects.
Weather – A particular weather could be a major cause of cold to an individual. A non-friendly weather such as harmattan and cold weathers could trigger common cold and flu
Intake of Cold drinks -Intake of cold drinks could also cause cold. Regular intake of cold drinks affects the body system and your throat, especially if you are the type who often experience cold. Limit your cold drink, you could try drinking hot tea instead of cold ones.
Environmental Pollution – Pollutions such as release of fumes into the air, excess dust in the atmosphere and all could also cause cold especially catarrh as we tend to breathe in those air.
Infections
Symptoms of Cold
Other symptoms of common cold include:
- Head and body aches
- Appetite loss
- Fatigue
- Hoarseness
Treatment
A cold often requires no special treatment as it cures on its own. The common cold resolves an individual with time, though certain home remedies and medications could be administered to the individual, and they include:
High Intake of Fluids – When having a cold, it is recommended that the individual consumes more fluid and also getting proper rest. The fluids, especially water, helps in flushing away certain bacteria which may be responsible for the cold and prevents dehydration which may lead to fatigue. Also, avoid cold fluids.
Medication – Over the counter drugs such as lozenges, cough syrups, nasal inhalers, throat sprays and all helps in treating cold. It is recommended you get a prescription list from your doctor.
Consumption of Vitamin C enriched foods – Foods and fruits rich in vitamin C are recommended for individuals experiencing a cold. Oranges, apples and water melon for example, are few of those fruits rich in vitamin C and should be consumed as they aid in fighting the bacteria that causes cold.
Proper Rest – Take a break from your activities and rest properly. When the body is at rest, the system gets to reset itself and certain medications get to work properly. You may wake feeling better, who knows?
While treating cold, also try to take proper care of yourself by covering your body and putting on thicker clothes. Else, you might be treating the illness from within without any effect.
