Common cold appointments
About Cold
A cold is a viral infection that infects the upper respiratory system (the nose and throat). There are over 200 types of viruses that can cause a cold, and the infection is highly contagious. Most healthy people will experience at least one cold every year. Infection is more common in the winter as people are near each other indoors more often.
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sneezing
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Fever
- Nasal congestion
- Body aches
Variations of the rhinovirus are the most common causes of a cold. These viruses can infect you by entering your body through your eyes, nose, or mouth. Adults rarely experience fever symptoms when dealing with a common cold. In fact, one of the surest ways to tell the difference between a cold or a flu infection is the presence of fever symptoms.
Common colds are generally very mild and require little to no medical attention. However, severe infections can lead to complications such as:
- Asthma
- Ear infections
- Sinus infections
- Acute bronchitis (chest cold)
If you are experiencing the symptoms of a cold, avoid going out in public. The infection is easily spread through airborne droplets and on surfaces. Practice good hygiene and rest until your symptoms have passed.
Below are common treatment options for a cold. During your visit, talk to your health care provider about the best treatment for your cold, and tips to prevent spreading the infection.