The Common Cold

The term 'common cold' is deceptive because it doesn't refer to a single virus or infection. It's a name used to identify one of over 200 different viruses that can infect your upper respiratory system and produce a particular set of symptoms. The reason it's been such an enigma to doctors and scientists seeking a cure is because of the number and diversity of viruses involved. There just isn't a single cure that will kill every strain of virus which can cause the common cold.

The typical cold lasts for three to five days while the immune system zeros in on the target virus and sends a specialized immune response to halt its reproduction. Viruses which cause colds are spread from person to person through physical contact with infected fluids (typically phlegm and saliva). These fluids can be deposited on surfaces or dispersed into the air by coughing and sneezing. The best way to avoid contracting or spreading a cold virus is to limit contact with infected people and maintain a healthy lifestyle that promotes a strong immune system (Tips on how to care for your immune system).

Cold Symptoms

Commonly reported cold symptoms include:

• sore throat
• persistant cough
• sneezing
• congestion
• runny nose
• headache
• fatigue
• a mild fever (<103F). A fever higher than 103F is more likely influenza and is usually accompanied with chills and muscle aches.

You should see your doctor for a diagnosis if your symptoms are severe or if the they last longer than 5 days with no sign of improvement. In some instances even a mild cold can grow into a more serious condition like pneumonia (Learn how to get rid of pneumonia). Better safe than sorry!

Getting rid of a Cold: Treatments

As was mentioned above, there is no panacea for colds due to the huge numbers and diversity in the viruses which cause it. Antibiotics are useless because they target bacteria, not viruses. If you're otherwise in good health it's easier to just take it easy and battle the symptoms while you give your body enough time to eliminate the virus. Following are many common treatments for colds and their symptoms (More tips how to stop a common cold), if you have a remedy to add here please do so using the form at the bottom of this page.

*Always consult your physician before using or mixing any of the below remedies.

Over-The-Counter Cold Remedies

Petroleum Jelly

Applying petroleum jelly underneath the nose or on the chest so it's vapors are inhaled can help soothe the irritation of a dry and raw nose and throat.

Analgesics

Analgesics are found in most over the counter cold and flu medications and many pain relievers such as NyQuil and Tylenol. These help relieve headaches and fever.

Cough Medicines

Cough medicines do pretty much what the name implies – they help relieve coughing (See how to get rid of coughs). Most do this using an antitussive and expectorant. Antitussives suppress the body's cough reflex and expectorants thin out your mucus, allowing it to be more easily expelled through coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.

Natural Cold Cures and Home Remedies

Common Sense Treatments

• Drink lots of fluids (very important).
• Get plenty of rest (preferably in bed).
• Eat a nutritious diet.

Salt Water

Gargling with salt water or using it to flush the nose can help reduce swelling and irritation.

Spicy Food

If your throat isn't irritated and you can handle it, eating something spicy can temporarily clear up a stuffy head.

Chicken Soup

Though there hasn't yet been any research that supports this, chicken soup remains a popular folk remedy for helping cure colds.

Steam Inhalation

This is effective for colds caused by members of the rhinovirus family due to their inability to survive at elevated temperatures. It can be achieved by sitting in a hot sauna or breathing the steam produced by hot water. Be careful not to burn yourself, and if you choose to sit in a sauna, make sure you stay hydrated.

Herbal Cures, Vitamins, and Mineral Supplementation

Among the many supplements that have been touted to help cure colds, the most popular are:

• Colloidal Silver Supplements
• Zinc Supplements
• Vitamin C Supplements
• Garlic Supplements
• Echinacea Capsules
• Chamomile Tea
• Lemon (Fresh or Juice)
• Caffeine (Tea or Coffee)