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How to Treat a Cold | NHS
Understanding Common Cold Symptoms
The common cold is a viral infection that primarily affects the nose, throat, and sinuses. Common symptoms include a sore throat, runny or blocked nose, sneezing, coughing, and a general feeling of being unwell. While colds are usually mild, they can be particularly uncomfortable and inconvenient.
Rest and Hydration
One of the most important things you can do when you have a cold is to get plenty of rest. Your body needs energy to fight off the virus, so try to sleep for at least 8 hours each night. Additionally, staying well-hydrated supports your immune system and helps ease symptoms like a sore throat and congestion. Aim to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, and clear broths.
Over-the-Counter Remedies
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help manage cold symptoms. Pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can reduce fever and alleviate aches and pains. Decongestants and nasal sprays can help to unblock your nose, but should not be used for more than a few days to avoid rebound congestion. Throat lozenges and cough syrups can soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing.
Home Remedies and Self-Care
There are several home remedies that can help alleviate symptoms. Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water can ease nasal congestion. Adding some menthol or eucalyptus oil to the water can provide additional relief. Gargling with warm salt water can help to soothe a sore throat. Honey and lemon in hot water can also be effective for calming a cough and sore throat.
Avoid Spreading the Virus
To prevent spreading the cold virus to others, practice good hygiene. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after sneezing or coughing. Use tissues to catch sneezes and dispose of them immediately. Avoid close contact with others while you are symptomatic.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Most colds are self-limiting and will resolve within a week or two. However, you should seek medical advice if your symptoms are severe, persist for more than three weeks, or if you experience any of the following: difficulty breathing, chest pain, a high fever that doesn't respond to medications, or the symptoms of a secondary infection like sinusitis or an ear infection.
Conclusion
While there's no cure for the common cold, following these guidelines can help you manage symptoms and recover more comfortably. If in doubt, visit the NHS website for more information or speak to a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common symptoms include a sore throat, runny or blocked nose, sneezing, coughing, headaches, and a general feeling of being unwell.
What are the common symptoms of a cold?
A common cold usually lasts about a week or two. Most people start to feel better within 7 to 10 days.
How long does a cold typically last?
No, antibiotics do not work on viral infections, such as colds. They only work on bacterial infections.
Can antibiotics treat a cold?
You can use decongestants, pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen, and cough syrups to help ease symptoms.
What over-the-counter medications can help alleviate cold symptoms?
Most people do not need to see a doctor for a cold. However, if symptoms are severe or persist for longer than three weeks, or if you have underlying health conditions, you should seek medical advice.
Is it necessary to see a doctor for a cold?
Yes, staying hydrated, resting, using saltwater gargles for a sore throat, and inhaling steam can help alleviate symptoms.
Are there any home remedies that can help with cold symptoms?
While vitamin C won’t prevent a cold, some studies suggest that it may help reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms.
Can taking vitamin C prevent a cold?
Good hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing, avoiding close contact with people who have colds, and not touching your face, can help prevent catching a cold.
How can I prevent catching a cold?
Mild to moderate exercise is usually okay if your symptoms are above the neck, such as a runny nose or sore throat. However, you should rest if you have a fever, fatigue, or muscle aches.
Is it safe to exercise when I have a cold?
No, a cold and the flu are caused by different viruses, and one does not turn into the other. However, the symptoms can be similar.
Can a cold turn into the flu?
Yes, using a humidifier can help relieve nasal congestion and soothe irritated airways.
Is it beneficial to use a humidifier when you have a cold?
No, you cannot catch a cold from being outside with wet hair. Colds are caused by viruses, not cold temperatures or wet hair.
Can you catch a cold from going outside with wet hair?
The symptoms are generally the same, but children may experience symptoms more severely, and fever is more common in children.
Are cold symptoms different in children compared to adults?
Stay hydrated with water, herbal teas, and clear broths. Eating nutritious foods, such as fruits and vegetables, can also help your immune system.
What should I eat or drink if I have a cold?
You should stay home if you have a fever, are feeling very unwell, or have a cough that cannot be controlled. This helps prevent spreading the infection to others.
When should I stay home from work or school if I have a cold?
Useful Links
Useful links from: What is the difference between the common cold and influenza or 'flu'
- NHS - Cold or Flu? Detailed information from the NHS on the differences between the common cold and flu, including symptoms, causes, and treatments.
- British Lung Foundation - Cold, flu, and infections Guidance from the British Lung Foundation on how to tell the difference between colds and the flu, along with tips on managing symptoms and prevention.
- Patient.info - What’s the difference between a cold and flu? An article on Patient.info that explores the key distinctions between the common cold and the influenza virus, symptom comparison, and treatment advice.
- Asthma UK - Colds, flu, and asthma Information from Asthma UK about how colds and flu affect people with asthma, how to manage symptoms, and prevention tips.
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