The University of Virginia states that the common cold is the number one illness in the United States. The common cold is a viral infection that typically affects the upper-respiratory system with symptoms such as nasal congestion, body aches and a sore throat, according to the Mayo Clinic. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease says that there is no cure for the common cold, leaving the body's immune system to ward it off naturally, taking anywhere from two to 14 days. While most cases of the common cold result in a few days of missed work or school, there are potential dangers that can develop from a cold.
Ear Infection
The New York Times Health Guide states that one of the most common dangers of the common cold is the development of a middle-ear infection. A middle-ear infection occurs when the Eustachian tubes become blocked by excess fluid or inflammation. Ear infections resulting from the common cold are less than one percent, but are more common in children and infants, according to the New York Times. Children's Eustachian tubes are small and undeveloped, rising the risk of fluid becoming trapped in the ear. Ear infections are treated with antibiotics and are not harmful if addressed by a doctor, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Sinusitis
Up to 3 percent of people who have a cold will develop sinusitis (sinus infection), according to the New York Times. Sinusitis is an infection of the sinus cavity causing inflammation, leading to severe congestion, sinus pain and nasal discharge. Sinus infections are treated with antibiotics, but may lead to more serious complications such as meningitis, eye infections or a facial bone infection, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms of a dangerous sinus infection are severe head pain, mental confusion and seizures.
Breathing Difficulty
The common cold can lead to the inflammation of the lungs, aggravated a person's asthma or causing wheezing, especially in young children. The common cold infection has been reported to be the most common cause of asthma attacks, according to the New York Times. If a child develops constant wheezing, she should be seen by a pediatrician for proper diagnosis and treatment. Serious signs of breathing difficulty are the inability to breathe properly, lightheadedness and fainting.
