Common Cold

Question 1

What are the causes of the common cold?

Answer 1

• A mixture of viral upper respiratory tract infections.
• Generally gradual onset.
• Transferred via the inhalation of infected droplets through the mouth or nose.

Question 2

What are the signs and symptoms of the common cold?

Answer 2

• Self-limiting
• Begin 2-3 days after infection
• Last 2-14 days, usually resolve after 7 days.
• Runny / blocked nose
• Cough (may persist for a few days after other symptoms have cleared).
• Sore throat
• Aches and pains
• Headaches

Question 3

What are the referral symptoms of the common cold?

Answer 3

• Wheezing/shortness of breath
• Pain on breathing or coughing.
• Earache
• Blood stained mucus
• Symptoms for 3 week or longer
• Neck stiffness
• Chest pain

Question 4

What are the OTC treatments of the common cold?

Answer 4

• Self-limiting but patients often opt for symptomatic relief.
• Decongestants
• Demulcents