The Common Cold
Sniffles, sneezes, a sore throat and a pesky cough are just a few indicators of a cold, the fall and winter seasons’ most common infectious disease in the United States.
Colds are caused by more than 100 different types of rhinoviruses, which are carried by invisible droplets in the air we breathe and on many objects we touch on a daily basis such as doorknobs, telephones, computer keyboards and faucet handles.
The viruses trigger an immune system reaction causing symptoms of a cold. The first signs of a cold are typically a tickle in the throat, congestion, a runny or stuffy nose, and sneezing. These symptoms can also be accompanied by fever, chills, fatigue, muscle aches and loss of appetite.
Colds are most contagious during the first two to four days after symptoms appear, but still can be spread up to three weeks later. The viruses are typically passed on through person-to-person contact and air particles from sneezing or coughing.
You can prevent contracting the common cold by practicing good hygiene. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, avoid physical contact with people who exhibit symptoms, and do not use the same utensils or share food and beverages with someone who is sick.
Although the absolute “cure” for the common cold is time, over-the-counter medicine can relieve its symptoms. Resting and staying hydrated are also important. Avoiding caffeinated beverages and foods that cause dehydration may help to speed up the healing process.
If you have additional questions or would like information on cough and cold products, please ask pharmacists Travis Holshouser and Jennifer Church.