Common Cold

The common cold is a viral infection that can suddenly affect both children and adults. Most colds resolve on their own within a few days, but symptoms can persist, impacting your daily activities and ability to work. In some cases, complications like sinusitis or bronchitis may require an in-person medical evaluation. There are many self-care methods available to help manage cold symptoms and potentially prevent complications through proactive home care.

Contents:

• Symptoms of a cold
• Causes of a cold
• Diagnosis and treatment
• Self-care instructions
• When to seek medical care?
• How Can Dokport Help?

Symptoms of a cold

Common symptoms of a cold include a sore throat, nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and cough. Other typical symptoms are fatigue, mild muscle aches, headaches, and low-grade fever. Symptoms usually appear within a few days of exposure to the virus and can last about a week.

Common symptoms of a cold:

• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Cough
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Low-grade fever
• Fatigue

Some symptoms, like a lingering cough, may last for several weeks. It is important to monitor for complications to ensure the cold does not lead to more serious conditions.

Causes of a cold

Colds are caused by viral infections, with rhinoviruses being a common culprit. These viruses spread easily through the air via respiratory droplets or through contact with contaminated surfaces, especially when an infected person coughs or sneezes. While cold weather and stress don’t directly cause colds, they can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections.

Diagnosis and treatment

In most cases, colds don’t require medical treatment and symptoms will improve on their own within a week. Rest, staying hydrated, and home remedies can help manage the discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers or fever reducers, like acetaminophen, can be used as needed to alleviate symptoms.

If symptoms persist or new, concerning symptoms arise, such as a high fever (over 103°F or 39.5°C) or breathing difficulties, you may need to see a doctor. A healthcare provider may perform further tests or prescribe treatment, such as antibiotics, if a bacterial infection is suspected.

Self-care instructions

Managing a cold involves rest and ensuring adequate hydration. Over-the-counter medications, like acetaminophen, can reduce fever and relieve pain. Using saline nasal sprays or inhaling steam can help relieve congestion, and warm drinks can soothe a sore throat.

Tips for managing a cold:

• Get plenty of rest to help your body recover
• Drink lots of fluids, like water and warm beverages such as tea or soup
• Use nasal sprays or drops to relieve congestion
• Take pain relievers for fever or aches as needed
• Use a humidifier if the air in your home is dry

When to seek medical care?

Seek medical attention if your cold worsens or symptoms last longer than two weeks. You should also see a doctor if you have a high fever, severe headache, difficulty breathing, or if you suspect complications like sinusitis or bronchitis.

How Can Dokport Help?

At Dokport’s remote care clinic, you can quickly get help managing cold symptoms. Our doctors can assess your symptoms through a chat consultation, provide home care guidance, prescribe medication if needed, or recommend sick leave based on your job duties. If necessary, we will refer you for an in-person visit with a doctor or nurse or evaluate the need for laboratory tests.

Expert: Dr. Anna Sipilä, MD, Associate Professor of Experimental Internal Medicine