Overview
The common cold is a viral upper respiratory tract infection that affects the nose and throat. It is usually harmless and resolves on its own within 7-10 days. Adults experience 2-3 colds per year on average, while children may experience 6-8.
It is one of the most common health issues in our country. More than 200 virus types can cause it, with rhinovirus being the most common.
Symptoms
Symptoms typically appear 1-3 days after exposure to the virus:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat, dry throat
- Sneezing
- Mild cough
- Fatigue and weakness
- Mild headache
- Mild fever (especially in children)
- Body aches
Causes
The common cold is caused by viruses spread through air or contact. The virus spreads:
- Through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes
- By touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth
- Through close contact in enclosed spaces
Risk Factors
- Age: Children under 6 have the highest risk
- Weakened immune system
- Season: More common in autumn and winter
- Smoking
- Being in crowded environments
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical care if:
- Fever above 38.5 °C lasting more than 3 days
- Severe headache or facial pain
- Shortness of breath, wheezing
- Symptoms lasting more than 10 days or worsening
- Fever or feeding difficulty in infants under 3 months
- Worsening symptoms in patients with chronic conditions such as asthma or COPD
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is based on symptoms; no special tests are needed. There is no specific treatment for the common cold; the body fights the virus on its own. Antibiotics are ineffective because the cause is viral.
To relieve symptoms:
- Drink plenty of fluids (water, soup, herbal tea)
- Get adequate rest
- Gargle with salt water
- Use saline nasal drops to open the nose
- Use paracetamol for fever and pain
Prevention
- Wash your hands often and properly
- Avoid touching your face (especially eyes, nose, mouth)
- Avoid close contact with sick people
- Clean frequently touched surfaces regularly
- Strengthen your immune system (healthy diet, sleep, exercise)
- Ventilate enclosed spaces