Common Cold

What is a common cold?

The common cold is a viral infection affecting the upper respiratory tract, primarily caused by the rhinovirus. Typical symptoms include nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and a scratchy throat. It’s a familiar ailment, with adults experiencing an average of 2 to 3 colds annually. Over 200 viruses, mainly rhinoviruses, can trigger a cold, easily spreading from person to person or via surfaces.

What are the symptoms of a cold?

After exposure to a cold virus, symptoms typically appear within 1 to 3 days. They rarely manifest suddenly.

Nasal symptoms include:

  • Sneezing
  • Watery nasal secretions
  • Congestion
  • Sinus pressure
  • Postnasal drip or drainage in the back of your throat
  • Runny nose
  • Stuffy nose
  • Loss of smell or taste

Head symptoms include:

  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Watery eyes
  • Sore throat
  • Cough
  • Headache

Whole body symptoms include:

  • Fatigue or general tiredness
  • Low-grade fever below (38.9°C)
  • Chest discomfort
  • Chills
  • Body aches
  • Difficulty breathing deeply

Cold symptoms typically last 7 to 10 days, peaking around day 5, and gradually improving. If symptoms worsen after a week or persist beyond 10 days, medical attention may be necessary.

What is the difference between a cold and a flu?

While colds and flu share respiratory symptoms, they’re caused by different viruses, with flu symptoms often being more severe and sudden in onset. Colds rarely lead to complications, whereas flu can result in sinus/ear infections, pneumonia, or sepsis.

What is the treatment for colds?

Antibiotics are not effective against cold viruses. Treatment focuses on symptom management. Over-the-counter medications such as decongestants, antihistamines, and pain relievers can help.

What is the common cold?

The common cold is a viral infection that affects the nose, throat, and upper respiratory system. It is one of the most common illnesses worldwide, affecting millions of people every year. In Africa, where changes in weather conditions and exposure to dust and smoke are common, colds spread easily, especially in crowded places like markets, schools, and public transport.

The common cold is caused by viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most common. There are over 200 different viruses that can cause colds, and they spread easily through handshakes, touching infected surfaces, and inhaling tiny virus-filled droplets when someone sneezes or coughs.

How common is the common cold in Africa?

  • On average, adults catch a cold 2 to 3 times a year, while children can have 6 to 8 colds per year, especially during rainy seasons or harmattan.
  • Studies show that 80% of respiratory infections in Africa are caused by viral infections like the common cold.
  • Overcrowding, poor ventilation, and exposure to dust make the common cold more widespread in cities and rural communities.

What are the symptoms of a cold?

Cold symptoms usually develop 1 to 3 days after exposure to the virus and last 7 to 10 days. The symptoms gradually worsen and peak around the 5th day, then start to improve.

Nasal symptoms (affecting the nose and sinuses):

  • Blocked or runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Loss of smell or taste
  • Sinus pressure (feeling heavy in the face)
  • Postnasal drip (mucus running down the back of your throat)

Head and throat symptoms:

  • Watery eyes
  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • Cough
  • Swollen lymph nodes (small lumps in the neck)

Whole body symptoms:

  • Feeling tired or weak
  • Chills
  • Body aches
  • Low-grade fever (less than 38.9°C)
  • Chest discomfort
  • Difficulty breathing deeply

When to see a doctor?

If symptoms last more than 10 days or worsen after a week, it may be another illness like flu, sinus infection, or pneumonia, and you should seek medical attention.

Difference between a cold and the flu?

Both the cold and flu affect the respiratory system, but flu symptoms are usually more severe and come suddenly. Unlike a cold, the flu can lead to serious complications like pneumonia or severe lung infections.

Key differences between cold and flu:

  • Fever: Rare or mild in colds, but high (39°C or more) in flu.
  • Runny or stuffy nose: Common in colds, but only sometimes in flu.
  • Cough: Mild to moderate in colds, but severe and persistent in flu.
  • Body aches: Mild in colds, but severe in flu.
  • Fatigue: Mild in colds, but extreme in flu.
  • Sudden onset: No in colds, but yes in flu.

How to treat a cold?

The common cold has no cure because it is caused by viruses, not bacteria. Antibiotics will not help and should not be used for colds.

However, you can treat the symptoms to feel better and recover faster:

Home remedies:

  • Drink plenty of fluids: Warm drinks like ginger tea, lemon water, and soups help keep the body hydrated and loosen mucus.
  • Rest well: The body needs energy to fight the infection, so get enough sleep.
  • Gargle with salt water: This soothes a sore throat and kills germs.
  • Use steam therapy: Inhaling steam from hot water with mint leaves or eucalyptus oil can relieve nasal congestion.
  • Take vitamin C and zinc: Found in oranges, pineapples, and leafy greens, these boost the immune system.

Medications to relieve symptoms:

  • Pain relievers like paracetamol can help reduce fever and body aches.
  • Decongestants (such as nasal sprays) help clear a blocked nose.
  • Cough syrups can help if coughing is severe.

How to prevent a cold?

Since the common cold spreads easily, preventing it is the best approach.

  • Wash hands regularly with soap and water to remove viruses.
  • Avoid touching your face, nose, or mouth to prevent infection.
  • Use a handkerchief or tissue when sneezing or coughing.
  • Avoid close contact with people who have a cold.
  • Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables to boost immunity.
  • Get enough sleep and reduce stress, as a weak immune system makes you more vulnerable to infections.

Conclusion?

The common cold is not life-threatening, but it can be very uncomfortable. In Africa, where access to healthcare can sometimes be challenging, prevention and early home treatment are key. By following simple hygiene practices, staying hydrated, and boosting your immune system, you can reduce your chances of getting a cold and recover faster if you do get one. e most effective and common home remedies for a cold include:

  • Getting lots of rest. Getting plenty of rest helps your body save energy to let the virus run its course.
  • Zinc lozenge and ginger tea
  • Drinking plenty of fluids. Staying well hydrated helps you replace fluids you’ve lost while also helping relieve congestion.
  • Using vapor rub or rob. Vapor rub topical ointments help open your airways and ease congestion.
  • Gargling with salt water. A saltwater gargle can help coat your throat and ease irritation.