The common cold- and how to get rid of it

Did you know that the #1 reason kids have to stay home from school is because they have the cold? (And you thought it was just playing hooky!) The common cold is also the top reason for children to require a doctor visit. However, kids are not the only group that’s an easy victim for colds: aged people and patients suffering from other diseases are also at a high risk. And, of course, no matter how good our health is on the whole, we are all prone to feel ‘under the weather’ every now and then.

Much like the flu, colds are viral infections of the upper respiratory tract. That basically means both the ailments affect the ear, nose and throat. There are about 200 different types of cold viruses with the most common one being rhinovirus. This huge number of cold viruses doesn’t allow for one consummate anti-cold vaccine or shot. Fortunately for us, our body has its own very effective way of combating the viruses that cause cold: our natural immune system.

Now while there is no ‘miracle cure’ for cold viruses, time eventually gets the best of them: Colds usually run their course for a week or two and then you’re as good as new again.  However, while you’re suffering from one, you can have some very unpleasant symptoms ranging from headaches and runny nose to watery eyes and congestion. Because colds share a lot of symptoms with the flu and certain other diseases, you can’t be sure that the reason behind your sickness is the common cold unless your doctor absolutely rules out other conditions. So if you feel very ill or your sickness seems to be prolonging, do pay a visit to your local clinic or get someone to take you there. The medics at MedHelp will have you properly diagnosed and recovering in no time!

If you think you’re suffering from a cold and a visit to a doctor doesn’t seem necessary, you can always wait out the cold at your home.  To get rid of the distressing symptoms and get about your everyday work as usual, you can use over-the-counter medicine like cough syrups and antihistamines to effectively treat the symptoms. However, you should still get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids so that you can get rid of your cold as quickly as possible- and not just its symptoms.