You're probably used to this. You get a little scratchy in the throat , you start to get a runny nose , you cough , and you feel like you're not feeling well. Before long, you're caught in the grip of a bad cold. How much do we suffer from this little illness? Did you know that a tiny virus, invisible to the naked eye, is responsible for all of this? And it's not just one virus that we need to protect ourselves from. There are over 200 types of viruses that can cause the common cold . Let's take a look at how this cold develops, what causes it, and what we can do to recover quickly.
What exactly is a cold?
A cold is another name for an upper respiratory infection . It occurs when a germ enters the upper parts of our respiratory system. That means:
- Nose: The nostrils are the main entrance to our respiratory system.
- Nasal cavities: These empty spaces inside the nose are where air moves in and out.
- Sinuses : These are air-filled cavities inside our cheeks and forehead. These sinuses help clean, warm, and circulate the air we breathe.
- Larynx: We also call this the voice box.
Our entire respiratory system is lined with a thin layer of mucus that prevents foreign objects, such as dust and pollen, from entering the body. However, no matter how advanced this system is, sometimes germs can get past this barrier and enter.
What are the main types of viruses that cause colds?
Although there are many types of viruses that can cause the common cold, there are a few main culprits.
| Virus type | Let's simply know. |
|---|---|
| Rhinovirus | There are more than 169 types of the virus found worldwide. It is responsible for 10%-40% of all colds. Although it is painful to get sick, it rarely becomes serious. |
| Coronavirus | Some strains of this virus cause the common cold. But new strains like SARS-CoV-2 can cause more severe illnesses like COVID-19. This is more common during the winter. |
| Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) | It is so common that many children have it by the age of 2. Although symptoms are usually mild, they can sometimes be severe enough to require hospitalization. |
| Human parainfluenza virus (HPIV) | This can cause the common cold, but can also sometimes lead to more serious conditions like croup, bronchitis, and pneumonia. |
In addition to these, colds are also caused by viruses that have not yet been identified. About 20%-30% of colds in adults are caused by a yet “unidentified” germ.
How do germs enter the body?
The common cold is a very contagious disease.
- When someone with a cold coughs, sneezes, or talks near you.
- When sharing items such as towels and bed sheets that are contaminated with the virus.
- When you touch a surface contaminated with the virus and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth with the same hand.
Myths and truths about the common cold
There's a lot of misinformation about health on the internet, especially on social media. Let's take a look at some of the myths you may have heard about the common cold and whether they're true or not.
| Myth | The Truth |
|---|---|
| Being in a cold environment causes colds. | There is no evidence that exposure to cold weather causes colds. Colds are caused by viruses. However, during the cold season, we are more likely to get sick because we are indoors and surrounded by more people. |
| Milk and dairy products increase mucus production and cause colds. | This is a complete misconception. Dairy foods do not increase mucus production in the body. However, when certain dairy foods are placed in the mouth and throat, they can cause a feeling of mucus. |
| Vitamin C can prevent the development of colds. | Although vitamin C strengthens the immune system, it cannot prevent colds 100%. However, vitamin C can speed up the recovery time after you get sick. Fruits and vegetables provide the necessary vitamin C. If you are considering taking a supplement, it is best to ask your doctor. |
| Stress is not good for the immune system. | This is true. While short-term stress can boost the immune system, long-term stress can reduce the body's production of white blood cells that fight germs. This increases the risk of illness, especially the common cold. |
Other causes of a cold
In addition to viruses, several other factors can increase your risk of developing a cold.
- Being in crowded places: Germs spread very easily in places like schools, offices, and buses.
- Dry air with low humidity: Dry air dries out the inside of the nose. This weakens the mucous membrane and makes it easier for germs to enter.
- Smoking : Not only smokers, but also those who inhale secondhand smoke are at increased risk of developing the disease.
- Lack of sleep : Studies have found that people who sleep less than 7 hours a day are three times more likely to catch a cold than those who sleep 8 hours or more.
The most important thing is that there is no cure for the common cold. The best we can do is rest, drink fluids , and manage the symptoms.
What can we do to recover?
Although there is no specific “cure” for the common cold, there are a few things you can do to help ease the symptoms and find relief:
- Get plenty of rest: This will give your body the energy it needs to heal.
- Drink plenty of fluids: Drink things like water, unsweetened tea, and hot chicken soup. This will prevent dehydration and help reduce nasal congestion.
- Inhale steam: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or taking a hot bath can help reduce nasal congestion.
- Gargle with salt water: Gargling with a teaspoon or half of salt in a glass of warm water can help reduce throat irritation and pain. (This is not recommended for children under 6 years of age).
- Prescription medications: You can take over-the-counter pain relievers for things like pain and body aches. However , before using any medication, especially if you have other medical conditions or are taking other medications, be sure to consult your doctor.
Warning: Avoid giving aspirin to children and young people. It can cause a serious, life-threatening condition called Reye's syndrome.
A cold usually clears up within 7-10 days. However, if your symptoms get worse, your fever doesn't go down, or you have difficulty breathing, seek medical advice immediately. In an emergency, such as difficulty breathing, it is important to go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU).
Take-Home Message
- The common cold is caused by a virus, not by cold weather.
- To prevent the spread of colds, it is very important to wash your hands frequently and cover your mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing.
- Getting enough sleep, managing stress, and eating a balanced diet can strengthen the immune system.
- Since there is no specific treatment for the common cold, the best thing to do is rest and manage the symptoms.
- If symptoms are severe or last a long time, do not delay seeing a doctor.
Cold, common cold, colds, viruses, runny nose, itchy throat, cough, causes of cold, treatment of cold
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