Common viral infections like colds and flu, do not respond to antibiotics and usually have to be left to run their course. Everybody expects to suffer from a cold at some time, though some are more susceptible. Particularly the elderly or those with conditions such as asthma, COPD or compromised immune deficiency.

Symptoms

Symptoms associated with the common cold are mainly sneezing, congestion of nose and lungs, sore throats, cough and a runny nose, and general feeling of malaise.

Causes

The likely cause is that the mucous lining of the throat and nasal passages becomes infected by a virus transmitted by sneezing or coughing.

Treatment

In most cases, home care is all that is needed. This might involve just staying in bed, keeping warm and increasing fluid intake to help reduce mucous and to replace fluids lost through sweating. There are many over-the-counter products available to help reduce discomfort. If breathing problems become severe, or if symptoms like pain and fever do not subside after a reasonable period, then a doctor's opinion may be necessary.

Dr. A. Bose
Mr.Jai Cheema
© allcures.com September 2009

Ref:BNF, CPD Lit.,MIMS, Clinical , Internet,WebMD,Clinical Medicine edited by Kumar and Clark, NHS