What is a Cold: Understanding the Basics

The common cold has been annoying people for centuries, yet despite all this time, many of us still don’t really understand what it is. We know it involves sneezing, coughing and a lot of tissue use, but what causes it, how long it lasts, and what you can do to feel better are all questions that require a bit of explanation. Let’s take a closer look at the common cold and get a better understanding of this widespread affliction.

What Causes a Cold?

At its most basic, a cold is a type of mild infection of the upper respiratory tract. When someone who is infected with a cold virus sneezes or coughs, tiny droplets of moisture are released into the air, and if someone in close proximity inhales them, the virus has the chance to enter the person’s body. This can also happen through contact with an infected person’s skin, or through contact with household surfaces like doorknobs that someone with a cold touched.

Common Cold Symptoms

If you do catch a cold, you’ll start to notice some common cold symptoms within a few days. These may include a runny or stuffy nose, a sore throat, chills, a mild fever, coughing, sneezing, headaches and fatigue. These can last anywhere from a day or two to two weeks, depending on the person and the particular virus. Children’s colds may last longer than in adults, so it’s important to give them extra rest to help them recover.

How to Get Over a Cold

Unfortunately, there is no cure for the common cold. However, most people are able to recover without too much difficulty by taking simple steps to help their body fight off the virus. Get plenty of rest, drink lots of fluids, and take an over-the-counter cold and flu medicine if recommended. If your cold symptoms don’t start to improve after a few days, or if you develop a high fever and chest pain, contact your doctor.

Colds can be uncomfortable, but understanding them is the first step to getting better. With the right information and the right precautions, you can come through a cold with a minimum of hassle.