The common cold is a familiar, uncomfortable experience. The sneezing, sniffling, and body aches can leave anyone feeling under the weather for days. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), colds are one of the leading reasons for missed work and school.
A cold is a viral infection affecting the upper respiratory system, including the nose, sinuses, and throat. Symptoms may include a runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, headaches, and body aches. Typically, recovery occurs within seven to ten days. Although over 200 viruses can cause colds, rhinovirus is the most common culprit, according to the CDC. These viruses spread easily from person to person, particularly in shared spaces such as homes, classrooms, and offices.
How to Manage a Cold
There is currently no cure for the common cold. Dr. Erich Voigt, an otolaryngology expert at NYU Langone Health explains, “Colds are caused by viruses for which there is no specific treatment, so symptom relief is the focus.” The body usually fights off the virus on its own, and most people recover within a week. Voigt also mentions the popular saying: “If you treat a cold, it’ll go away in a week, and if you don’t, it’ll go away in seven days.”
While over-the-counter remedies and supplements claim to shorten the duration of cold symptoms, scientific evidence supporting these claims is often limited. Pediatrician Dr. Richard Chung emphasizes that many of these treatments have not been proven effective, especially in children.
Before trying to treat a cold, it’s essential to confirm that it’s not something more serious. According to Dr. Stuart Ray from Johns Hopkins University, symptoms like fever, shortness of breath, severe pain, or loss of taste and smell may indicate a condition other than the common cold, such as flu or COVID-19, which may require medical attention.
What Not to Do When You Have a Cold
Several treatments are often mistakenly used to manage cold symptoms:
- Antibiotics: Since colds are caused by viruses, antibiotics, which treat bacterial infections, are ineffective and should be avoided unless a bacterial infection is present.
- Alcohol and Caffeine: Both can contribute to dehydration, which is harmful when fighting a cold.
- Smoking or Vaping: These can further irritate the respiratory system and exacerbate symptoms.
Effective Symptom Relief for a Cold
Though there’s no cure for the cold, certain methods can help manage symptoms:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications like acetaminophen or Ibuprophen can ease body aches and headaches.
- Decongestants: These can reduce nasal congestion by shrinking swollen blood vessels. Oral decongestants like pseudoephedrine are available but may increase heart rate and anxiety, so they should be used with caution.
- Cough medicines: Expectorants, like guaifenesin, can loosen mucus, and couch suppressants, like dextromethorphan, may be helpful for nighttime coughing. However, over-the-counter cough medicines should generally be avoided in young children due to potential side effects.
Home Remedies for Cold Relief
While medications can help, some natural remedies may also ease symptoms and support recovery:
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, juice or broth, helps loosen mucus and prevent dehydration. Keeping mucus thin can reduce the risk of complications, such as sinus infections or bronchitis.
- Rest: Getting enough sleep helps the immune system fight off the virus. However, lying in bed all day can cause mucus to settle in the lungs, potentially leading to complications like pneumonia, so moderate activity is recommended.
- Steam and Humidifiers: Inhaling steam or using a humidifier can keep the airways moist and help clear out mucus.
- Honey: Known for its soothing properties, honey can help alleviate sore throats and suppress coughing, especially in children over one year of age.
Final Thoughts: Listen to Your Body
Ultimately the best way to manage a cold is to listen to your body. Stay home to rest, stay hydrated, and avoid unnecessary treatments. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider to rule out complications like bacterial infections. Looking for a telehealth solutions to receive care from the comfort of your home while battling a cold? Contact our Member Services Team for more information: (214) 389-9072.
