Common cold is frequently found both in children and adult, especially children of early school age because they have never been exposed to viruses. When going to school they get to meet more people and it is common to catch a cold once in a while. When they grow up, their body has more immune to fight various diseases. They are likely to get sick less frequently and less severe.
Common cold is caused by various types of virus such as Rhinovirus, Adenovirus, Coronavirus, Enterovirus, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), etc. When the body is exposed to such viruses, immunes are developed. Each cold is caused by different type of virus.
Symptoms
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Nasal congestion or runny nose with clear mucus
- Sneezing
- Dry, sore throat
- Cough, whether dry or wet
Treatment
Viral infections cannot be treated with medication so the focus is on alleviating symptoms.
- Use medication to reduce fever if needed.
- If coughing, drink warm water frequently.
- The doctor may prescribe antibiotics if bacterial infection also develops, e.g. if the mucus is yellow or green, if the throat is inflamed or if there is ear pain.
