How to avoid catching a cold

What is the common Cold?

The common cold is the name given to a contagious viral disease which infects the soft lining of the nose and throat. This infection leads, in turn, to the most characteristic symptoms of a cold, the runny nose and a sore throat. Usually, it is a mild condition, recovery taking place within about a week. However, sometimes the same symptoms occur with other illnesses like influenza. It's most common during the cold winter months and affects children and adults of all ages. Most people will catch a cold two to four times a year.

Overview

Usually a common cold causes no serious trouble and as mentioned, symptoms will clear up in one to two weeks. Possible complications include inflammation of the eyes, sinusitis, inflammation of the middle ear, tonsillitis, and pneumonia. The reason for these complications may be that a germ infects the irritated mucous membrane.

What is the difference between a cold and flu?

Sometimes it can be quite difficult to tell the difference between the common cold and the flu because many of the symptoms are similar. However, there are differences, as outlined below:

A cold can be 'caught' four or more times a year, whereas a flu will usually only be contracted once a year, most probably during the winter months.

One of the earliest symptoms of a cold is a runny nose. This secretion looks like water, but gradually becomes thicker and more yellow as the cold worsens. As the soft lining of the nose swells up, it may become extremely difficult to breathe through the nose.

In cases of influenza, a runny, watery secretion from the nose may also be present but this seldom deteriorates to such an extent that it may affect breathing through the nose.

Patients suffering from both the common cold and a period of influenza will generally feel unwell and below par, but persistent, and sometimes severe headaches may be present with influenza. Slight headaches are normally present with the common cold.

Avoid catching a cold

Most people believe that it is virtually impossible to avoid 'catching' a cold, particularly during the winter months. However, there are a couple of steps which can be taken to minimize the risk of coming into contact with the virus which causes the common cold. These include:

Do not touch your eyes or nose after being in physical contact (shaking hands) with someone who has a cold, as this is one of the most common ways of spreading the infection.

Avoid crowded, stuffy atmospheres where the risk of contracting the cold virus is much greater.

Drink plenty of fluids. Water flushes your system, washing out the poisons as it re-hydrates you.

Some foods may also help. Fruits and vegetables have natural chemicals that help your body use their vitamins. Also get an adequate amount of exercise.

Consider taking one 500mg tablet of vitamin C twice a day. Some scientists believe this can help boost you immune system, although there is no strong evidence to support this.

Wash off the frequently used household objects regularly with detergent and warm water or a mild disinfectant.

Be sure that each member of your household uses separate drinking cups and towels.

Tips regarding cold

Some studies have shown that the herbal supplement 'Echinacea' may be effective at fighting cold symptoms when taken during the first few days of illness but not prior to exposure. However, again, there is no scientific information that supports the effectiveness of Echinacea. You may be more susceptible to colds when you are under stress, during your menstrual period, or as you get older these are times when your immune system is weakened. It is learned from nursing that 98% of colds are caught through the eyes. Wash your hands periodically throughout the day, and limit the frequency with which you touch your eyes. This significantly helps reduce the chance you will catch a cold.