Common Cold Specialist

What Causes the Common Cold?

The common cold results from around 250 unique viruses. With such a wide range of viruses, there are many different ways to catch a cold. This also means that it isn't possible to vaccinate against all of these viruses at once.

What Are the Most Common Viruses?

The common cold viruses that occur most frequently include rhinovirus (at least 30 percent of all common cold cases,) coronavirus, respiratory syncytial virus, orthomyxovirus, and enterovirus. Each of these virus types has further sub-types, as well.

What Are the Signs of a Common Cold?

The signs of a common cold can include a runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, and a minor low-grade fever.

How is the Common Cold Passed From One Person to Another?

Transmission can occur in several ways, including inhalation of droplets of mucus when a person sneezes. Even touching an object that was just touched by a person with a common cold can result in passing of the common cold virus.

What is the Treatment For the Common Cold?

Because colds result from viruses, antibiotics can't treat the common cold. While there is no way to treat the virus, the symptoms can be managed very effectively using medications like antihistamines, saline drops, humidifiers, cough drops, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and cough suppressants. It is important for anyone who has a common cold to get plenty of rest and to stay well hydrated. The symptoms will usually pass in a few days, and will often be completely gone in as little as a week.

Can Common Colds Be Prevented?

Yes, it is possible to prevent the common cold, at least in some cases. Always wash hands or use a hand sanitizer after contact with other people and after using the bathroom. Don't touch the eyes, mouth, or nose, as these mucous membranes can absorb viruses easily. Developing these habits may help people avoid common colds in many cases.

To get treatment for your common cold, call the office or book an appointment online today.