Colds are caused by viruses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that on average, children are infected by any one of 200 different strains of cold viruses eight to 12 times a year; adults are infected an average of four times a year. The viral strains of the common cold are very infectious and easily spread, especially in schools, day care centers and places where groups of people gather. Transmission occurs by sneezing, coughing and touching anything previously touched by an infected person, then touching your own eyes, nose or mouth, introducing the virus into the body. The signs and symptoms of a cold may include any or all of the following symptoms: sore throat, nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing and earaches, especially in younger children. There are medical explanations for the symptoms of the common cold, which typically resolve in about two weeks.
Sore Throat
A sore throat is usually the first symptom of an oncoming viral infection with the common cold; it could also be a sign of a bacterial infection, such as strep throat. A typical sore throat feels scratchy and mildly uncomfortable, especially at night, but it usually resolves in a few days. Complaints of severe throat pain and fever need to be reported to a physician and medically managed to prevent complications.
Nasal Congestion
The nasal congestion associated with a cold is caused by inflamed blood vessels which, in turn, cause swollen membranes and the feeling of having a stuffy or runny nose, according to Medline Plus. Normally, this annoyance resolves on its own along with other cold symptoms in seven to 10 days. If this is not the case or if there is excessive swelling of the face or eyes, medical consultation should be sought.
Sneezing and Coughing
Sneezing and coughing are typical symptoms of the common cold. These symptoms are caused by the infectious process caused by viral or bacterial infections; in the case of the common cold, the cause is viral. The response of the tissues to invasion by pathogens is irritation and swelling which the body tries to rid itself of by forcefully coughing and sneezing.
Earaches
Earaches are often associated with the common cold in young children. This condition is referred to as acute otitis media. According to the CDC, ear infections are one of the most commonly reported infections in childhood and usually begin when fluid from the middle ear is unable to drain due to a swollen and obstructed upper respiratory tract. Fluids collect in the middle ear increasing pressure inside the ear canal, which presses against the ear drum causing moderate to severe pain.
