The common cold is a mild illness primarily affecting the nose and throat, usually caused by viral infection. While generally not serious, it can be quite uncomfortable. Viruses are responsible for triggering the common cold.
If you are suffering from a common cold for a longer duration, then you must not delay it but visit the clinic of Mani H Zadeh, MD, in Century City. Los Angeles.
Adults typically experience around two to three colds annually, whereas infants and young children tend to have them more frequently.
Individuals usually recover from a common cold within 7 to 10 days. However, for those who smoke, symptoms might persist longer. Medical intervention is typically unnecessary for managing a common cold. But if symptoms do not improve or worsen, seeking medical advice is advisable.
Viral infections impacting the nose and throat are classified as upper respiratory tract infection.
Symptoms of cold?
After encountering a cold-causing virus, it takes 1 to 3 days for symptoms to emerge, progressing gradually. Nasal symptoms associated with cold include:
- Congestion
- Loss of smell/taste
- Throat drainage following nasal discharge
- Runny nose
- Sinus pressure
- Sneezing
- Stuffy nose
- Watery nasal secretions
Few head symptoms include:
- Cough
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Watery eyes
Whole body symptoms include:
- Body aches
- Chest discomfort
- Chills
- Difficulty breathing deeply
- Fatigue/general tiredness
- Low grade fever under 102°F (38.9°C)
When to see a doctor?
Medical attention is generally unnecessary for adults with common cold. Nonetheless, you should consult a doctor if you experience the following conditions:
-
- Symptoms not getting better.
- Fever more than 101.3⁰ F (38.5⁰C) continues for over three days.
- Fever returning after a few days.
- Shortness of breath.
- Wheezing.
- Intense sore throat
- Headache or sinus pain.
Most children may not need medicine however, in the following condition you must consult doctor:
- Fever of 100.4⁰F (38⁰C) in newborns for 12 weeks.
- Fever lasting for two days or more for child of any age.
- More-intense symptoms like headache, cough or throat pain.
- Trouble with breathing/wheezing.
- Ear pain.
- Fussiness/drowsiness that is not typical.
- No interest in eating.
Cold symptoms usually persist for a span of 7 to 10 days. Symptoms typically peak severity around the fifth day of a cold and then begin to subside. If symptoms worsen after a week or persist beyond ten days, it could indicate an alternative health issue, prompting medical evaluation.
Visit the clinic of Mani H Zadeh, MD, in Century City. Los Angeles, if the cold persists for a longer time.
