Common Cold Symptoms

The common cold is primarily caused by a virus. Viruses exist in hundreds of forms; however, most cause similar cold symptoms. Due to the ability of viruses to evolve at a rapid rate, they are constantly changing. This tricks our immune system and doesn’t allow us to build up resistance to all forms of viruses. This is why colds are so common and often return!

Viruses that cause the common cold are contagious. They can be spread by air droplets from and infected individual by coughing and sneezing. It is also spread by contact, such as touching a surface that has been infected (examples include: doorknobs, countertops, drinkware). Viruses are contagious from 1–2 days before symptoms begin until the symptoms have stopped.

Common Cold Symptoms

The symptoms of the common cold are the body’s reaction to a cold virus. The virus triggers the immune response to release certain chemicals in the body resulting in increased mucous production.

The most common symptoms of a cold are:

dry throat
sore throat
cough
mild fever
sneezing
hoarse voice
nasal congestion
mild headache

Rarer symptoms of a cold include:

muscle aches
chills
pink eye
weakness
reduction in appetite
extreme exhaustion

Some people do not suffer any symptoms when infected with a cold virus, perhaps because their immune system reacts differently to the virus. Occasionally a common cold can be complicated by secondary infection by bacteria causing additional issues such as ear infections or sinus infections.

When to See a Doctor

Adults

Adults generally do not need medical attention for the common cold. However, if any of the following symptoms arise, visit your doctor immediately.

Fever greater than 101.3 F lasting longer than 3 days
Fever returning after a fever-free period
Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Severe sore throat, sinus pain, or headache

Children

Children should seek medical attention if any of the following symptoms arise:

Fever of 100.4 F in newborns up to 12 weeks
Rising fever or fever lasting longer than two days
Severe headache, throat pain, or coughing
Wheezing or difficulty breathing
Ear pain
Extreme fussiness
Unusual drowsiness
Lack of appetite

Common Cold Prevention

While there isn’t a vaccine or cure for the common cold, there are precautions you can take to prevent the cold virus from spreading. Common cold prevention tips include:

Wash your hands

Handwashing is one of the best ways to prevent yourself, your family members, friends, and others from getting sick. When washing your hands, scrub your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds. In cases where there is no access to antibacterial soap and water, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Reccomendations – Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives

Don’t Share

Avoid sharing drinking glasses and eating utensils with family members. Instead, use your own glasses or disposable drinkware when you or someone in your family is sick. Consider labeling the cup with the person’s name to avoid spreading germs.

Take care of yourself

During cold and flu season, eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep can help boost your immune system and help prevent you from getting sick.

Our Urgent Care Walk-In Clinics in Omaha, Bennington, West Omaha, Rockbrook, Crossroads & Bellevue, NE

Our staff works to provide prompt, personal, and professional care for all of our patients. We strive to provide the attention patients need in as quick a time as possible. Urgent Care Clinics in Omaha & Bellevue, Nebraska has three locations in the Omaha metropolitan area. Our three walk-in clinics are:

Disclaimer
The information contained on this webpage is for educational purposes as well as to provide general information and general understanding of the pertinent medical issue only, not to provide a specific diagnosis. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. By using this blog/web site you understand there is no doctor patient relationship between you and the blog/web site publisher. The information included on this site should not be used as a substitute for medical advice from a licensed medical professional in your state. Neither Urgent Care Network, its subsidiaries, affiliates, assignees or successors in interest, nor any other party assume liability for loss or damage due to reliance on content of this blog/web site. If you are experiencing a severe medical issue, you should seek emergency assistance immediately.