A runny nose, cough and muscle aches are some of the most common symptoms of the common cold, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease. Talk with a medical professional about the signs and symptoms surrounding a runny nose, cough and muscle aches for proper diagnosis, as these may be signs of a more serious condition.
Cold Basics
MayoClinic.com says the common cold is an upper-respiratory viral infection that mainly affects the sinuses and the throat. The viral infection causes the body's immune system to fight off the virus, resulting in common cold symptoms, such as a runny nose, coughing and muscle aches. The common cold is not curable, though the body is able to develop resistance to this particular strain of the cold.
Symptoms
A runny nose from the common cold is the result of the sinus cavity producing more mucus than normal, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease. The excess secretions will drain out of the nose and down the throat, causing throat irritation and congestion. The cough is a result of the excessive phlegm in the throat and the irritation from the viral infection. The body attempts to break up the phlegm in the throat by coughing. Muscle aches are the result of an elevated body temperature, according to MedlinePlus.
Treatment
Over-the-counter medications are used to treat the symptoms of the common cold, but will not treat the source. A runny nose is treated with decongestants and antihistamines, according to MayoClinic.com. These two drugs work by reducing inflammation in the sinuses and reducing the amount of mucus produced. Coughing from the common cold is treated with cough suppressants and expectorants, according to MedlinePlus. Body aches are treated with pain relievers/fever reducers. Do not give aspirin to children or teens, which can result in Reye's Syndrome.
Complications
If these symptoms persist, a sinus infection, ear infection, bronchitis, asthmatic symptoms or pneumonia can develop, according to MedlinePlus. If symptoms persist for more than three days, talk with a doctor. If severe head pain or swelling accompanies these symptoms, seek medical help.
Prevention
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease says the common cold is primarily prevented with hand washing, avoiding people who appear to be sick, disinfecting and staying current on vaccines. If someone is sick with the common cold, she should remain home until the symptoms subside.
