The Common Cold:

Colds are the commonest viral infection we see and because there are so many viruses which can cause a cold, immunisation against them is impossible. Over a period of years adults tend to build up an immunity to these viruses, but children have not had this opportunity and so develop colds more often.

Symptoms:

A runny nose or blocked nose are the main symptoms. There is initially a clear discharge from the nose but after a few days this can become thick and yellow. Most people feel unwell and have associated sneezing and a temperature. The virus can also affect the back of the throat, causing a sore throat, hoarse voice and a dry cough. In addition the tube that drains the ears into the back of the nose can become blocked and this can cause earache or impaired hearing. It is often also difficult to sleep because breathing is difficult when the nose is congested.

Treatment

Unfortunately there is no cure for the common cold. The symptoms are usually worse over the first 2-3 days and then ease off over the following few days. Antibiotics are completely useless against the common cold but there are several other things you can do which will help to ease your symptoms while your body puts itself right:

Paracetamol: This will reduce your temperature, ease your sore throat and aches and pains. In an adult the full dose of 2 tablets 4 times a day should be taken. Children should take the appropriate dose but once again your child will feel better if the Paracetamol is given regularly 4 times a day rather than just when they feel hot or complain of a pain.
Gargling with soluble aspirin tablets dissolved in water can also help to relieve the symptom of a sore throat. After gargling for a few minutes, swallow the solution and in addition to the local effect of the aspirin on the throat helping to relieve the soreness, the raised temperature and general aching will be reduced once it has been absorbed in the stomach.
A variety of cold remedies can be bought over the counter in pharmacies and it is very important to read the leaflet carefully to be sure of their content. Several preparations contain a mixture of painkillers and decongestant medicines and care should be taken NOT to give aspirin to any child under the age of 12 (as this can result in a very severe reaction). Also watch out for remedies containing mild sedatives which can cause drowsiness and affect your ability to drive. However, such drowsiness can be a useful effect if these medications are taken at night when they can help to give you a good nights sleep.
Decongestant nose sprays and drops can also be bought and may ease a blocked nose. These should not be used for longer than 5 days at a time though as this can result in worsening of the symptom they were used against.
The old fashioned remedy of inhaling steam may seem like a bit of a faff, but can be very successful in relieving a blocked nose. For best effect, bend over a bowl of steaming water and put a towel over your head and bowl to capture the steam. Breathe the steamy vapour for as long as it is released and repeat this 3-4 times each day. Adding eucalyptus or methol crystals to the water may well give the impression of clearing the nose, but there is no good evidence that these are any more beneficial than inhaling ordinary steam and they certainly add a distinct aroma to the room!
Fluids – it is surprising how much fluid you can sweat when you have a temperature. This can easily cause mild dehydration and will add to the general feeling of unwellness and may cause a headache. Drinking plenty of fluids – any will do – is good advice.

Remember, most colds will settle after a few days and the above measures will help to make them more bearable. An unfortunate few will develop a complication such as a secondary chest, ear or sinus infection. A marked worsening of your condition should prompt you to seek further help.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice or substituted for professional advice. Always consult your doctor with your questions and concerns.