5 Things to Know About the Common Cold

1. Consider What Causes Colds

Colds are one of the most common illnesses in the United States. They are caused by multiple viruses, but the largest group is known as rhinoviruses, which contain over 100 strains. Colds are more common in the winter months but occur year-round.

2. Limit Person-to-Person Contact to Prevent Spreading a Cold

The common cold is spread by direct person-to-person contact or person-to-object contact. The cold virus can last several hours on an inanimate object, and can be spread through droplets from a cough or sneeze. When a person comes into contact with a virus and then touches his eyes, nose or mouth, he can become infected. Colds are not caused by being in a cold environment or going outside with wet hair.

3. Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of a Cold

The signs and symptoms of a cold include nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, a runny nose and a sore throat. Most cold symptoms will last 3 to 7 days and will resolve on their own. However, individuals who have a compromised immune system (for example, people with diabetes, asthma, cancer, HIV or who are on immune suppressing medications) are at a higher risk for complications such as pneumonia or sinusitis. These complications typically involve a secondary bacterial infection and require treatment with antibiotics.

4. Treat a Cold's Symptoms

Since there is no cure for the common cold, treatment is aimed at controlling the symptoms. Over-the-counter medications are usually sufficient to manage the symptoms, but if they continue to worsen after a week to 10 days, you should seek medical attention. Antibiotics are not used to treat colds because they are only useful in treating illnesses caused by bacteria, not viruses. However, if you have shortness of breath, severe head or neck pain, fever, the inability to remain hydrated or chest pain or cough up blood, seek medical attention immediately.

5. Practice Good Hygiene to Prevent Colds

Being vigilant is the key to the prevention of spreading cold viruses. Hand washing is the easiest and most important aspect of prevention. Persons should wash their hands for 15-30 seconds which is the equivalent of singing the ABCs or the Birthday song. If you have a cold it is important to cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze with a tissue, and wash your hands frequently to help prevent spreading the virus.