Common Cold

The Common Cold

The common cold is an acute infectious disease of the nasal mucosa (including the paranasal sinuses), throat, and bronchi.

Causes of the Common Cold

The infectious disease is predominantly caused by viruses such as rhinoviruses, enteroviruses, mastadenoviruses, or the corona and paramyxoviridae virus families. Sometimes, the infection is additionally caused by bacteria. This is then referred to as a secondary infection, also known as a superinfection.

A mild cold should not be confused with a flu-like infection or the significantly more severe real flu (influenza), which can be fatal, especially for immunocompromised individuals.

Risk Factors for the Common Cold:

The still widespread belief that cold, drafts, dampness, and hypothermia are the sole causes of a cold is NOT correct.

Cold ALONE cannot cause a cold. However, cold can lead to a weakened immune system, making it easier for viruses to establish themselves in the body.

Anything that weakens the immune system can make us more susceptible to colds. In addition to hypothermia, this includes stress, lack of sleep, and other illnesses. Close contact facilitates the transmission of pathogens. Large gatherings of people in enclosed spaces make it easy for viruses to spread.

Symptoms of the Common Cold:

Often, it starts with a slight scratchiness or pain in the throat. As it progresses, cough, runny nose, and hoarseness can occur in any combination and severity. Those with colds often complain of headaches and body aches and feel tired and sluggish.

Fever (body temperature above 38°C) can also be a accompanying symptom and is a natural part of the immune response. The temperature increase itself is usually harmless and typically ends with the successful defense against the infection. Therefore, the use of fever-reducing medications is generally unnecessary.

For severe discomfort such as headaches, joint, or muscle pain, pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications with active ingredients like paracetamol or ibuprofen may help.

However, if the symptoms persist or even worsen, you should definitely see your doctor.

Transmission of the Common Cold:

The disease-causing viruses are transmitted both as droplet infections through the air and directly or indirectly through contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects via contact infection.

Therefore, it is particularly important for infected individuals to maintain a distance of at least 2 meters from other people. Furthermore, using a tissue to cover the mouth and/or nose when sneezing or coughing and practicing thorough hand hygiene help prevent the risk of transmission. People with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly or infants, should be avoided during the cold season, as a harmless cold can quickly develop into a serious illness, especially in these groups.

Course of the Disease:

In most cases, those affected recover from a cold within 10-14 days. It is important to get enough rest and avoid physical exertion.

Therapy:

This primarily consists of rest, rest, and more rest…ideally in a warm and cozy environment! Physical exertion is absolutely taboo and can even harm the body in its weakened state.

Adequate fluid intake is important to sufficiently support metabolism and replenish lost fluids and electrolytes through sweating.

Over-the-counter medications with active ingredients like ibuprofen and paracetamol often help with pain and mild fever.

However, if symptoms persist, they should be checked by your doctor. Stronger medications may be necessary to get rid of the annoying viruses.