Cold and Cough- Causes and Symptoms

The primary reason for the majority of cases of colds and coughs is viral infection, and most of these ailments can clear up on their own without requiring any medical intervention. Antibiotics are ineffective against viruses and should not be taken without consulting a doctor. Seasonal infections of the nose and throat are caused by a variety of viruses that can spread through the air when someone with the infection coughs or sneezes. Children are susceptible to experiencing 3-8 episodes of colds or coughs annually, while healthy adults can experience 2-3 colds in a year.


Causes of colds and coughs
The common cold and cough can be caused by numerous types of viruses, with upper respiratory tract infections most frequently resulting from rhinoviruses. These viruses gain entry to the body through the eyes, mouth, or nose and can spread via airborne transmission when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Alternatively, transmission can occur through contact with contaminated objects such as towels, toys, phones, or hankies, or through shaking hands with an infected individual and then touching one's mouth, nose, or eyes.

People at risk are

?     Infants, young children, and old people

?     Those with weakened immune system or chronic diseases

?     Infections are more in fall and winter but can happen any time

?     Going to crowded places when infections are more increases the risk

?     Those who smoke

Symptoms of cough and cold

Typically, signs of a cold caused by a virus can manifest within one to three days of exposure.

The primary indications are frequently a runny nose and cough, while sneezing and congestion are also common.

The accumulation of mucus can cause ear pain, and coughing episodes may disrupt sleep at night, causing discomfort.

Other symptoms may include a sore throat, headache, malaise, mild fever, and reduced appetite.

In young children, a severe coughing fit may result in vomiting.

When should one see a doctor for a cold and cough?

In the majority of cases, a typical cold and cough will naturally resolve within a few days without any intervention or issues. However, in uncommon cases, it may progress to a respiratory infection, ear infection, pneumonia, or other complications.

Adults should see a doctor if

  • If the symptoms do not show improvement within 5-7 days or if they are worsening.
  • In case of a high fever persisting for more than three days or a fever with a low grade that persists.
  • If experiencing breathing difficulties or wheezing.
  • If suffering from severe pains or a severe headache.
  • If a rash appears or if there is chest pain.
  • If experiencing drowsiness or loss of orientation, or if there is a history of chronic diseases.
For children, medical attention should be sought in the following cases:
  • Babies less than three months old with a fever above 38°C should always be taken to a doctor.
  • If the fever is increasing or does not subside after two days.
  • In case of severe symptoms, wheezing, or breathing problems.
  • If there is ear pain or drowsiness, or if the child is fussy or has a lack of appetite.
  • If there are signs of dehydration, such as sunken eyes or low or no urine output.

Cold and cough- Home remedies and treatment

  1. Initially, the symptoms may worsen for 2-3 days, but then they start improving. If the symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a doctor. The cough can persist for 2-4 weeks as it is a natural way to clear the throat and airways.

  2. To stay hydrated, it is recommended to drink water, fresh juice, broths, or lemon water with honey. However, avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol as they can lead to dehydration.

  3. Rest is crucial to allow the body to utilize energy and nutrition to heal. Stay in a well-ventilated room and maintain a comfortable temperature.

  4. Soothe a sore throat with ice chips, lozenges, honey, or sugar-free candies. Saltwater gargles can help relieve a scratchy throat, while saline nasal drops can clear the nose.

  5. To relieve symptoms, you can use paracetamol and antihistamines. However, it is important to consult a doctor before giving these medications to children and not exceed the recommended dose.

  6. Steam inhalation can loosen mucus, and certain supplements like Vitamin D, zinc, and Vitamin C may help shorten the course of the infection.

  7. While adults can use over-the-counter cough and cold medicines with precautions, it is best to avoid them altogether.


Common cold and cough diagnosis

In most cases, a diagnosis is not necessary for common cold and flu as they share many symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches. However, flu tends to be more severe and some individuals may require antiviral medications to treat complications. A doctor can help determine if you have a common cold or the flu.

To diagnose the flu, rapid influenza tests can be utilized, while other tests like CBC, inflammation markers, viral cultures, and COVID-19 tests may be recommended if other infections are suspected. Additionally, blood tests may be performed to detect any bacterial infections, and throat and nasal swabs may also be taken.

At O-Lab, we provide a comprehensive diagnostic setup to test for a range of infections including flu, COVID-19, bacterial and viral infections, along with other lab tests.