Runny nose, constant sneezing, and a scratchy throat... Do you also feel like you're getting another cold? Although this is a very familiar and common thing in our lives, some things about it are still a mystery to many people. Why do you always get colds, but your best friend doesn't? More importantly, how can you stay healthy and avoid getting this disease? Let's learn exactly about the common cold today.
What exactly is this cold?
Simply put, a cold is a viral infection. There are over 200 types of viruses that can cause it. But the one that causes this problem the most is the rhinovirus . Imagine, this virus is responsible for about 50% of the colds we get. In addition, viruses such as Coronavirus , Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Influenza , and Parainfluenza can also cause colds.
It's so common that it's the leading reason people around the world miss work and school. So while it may seem like a simple thing, it's not something to take lightly.
How do we catch a cold?
You can catch it from someone who has a cold. There are several ways this can happen.
- By direct contact: By direct contact, such as shaking hands with someone who has a cold.
- By indirect contact: If you touch something that has the virus on it. For example, someone with a cold wipes their nose and then touches a doorknob, a computer keyboard, or a spoon with that hand. Then, if you touch that area and then touch your nose or mouth with that hand, the virus can enter your body.
- Through the air: By inhaling tiny droplets containing the virus that are released into the air when someone with a cold coughs or sneezes.
This is how the disease begins when the virus attaches to the lining of your nose or throat. Then our body's defense system, the immune system , sends white blood cells to fight the invader. But if you haven't had the exact same type of virus before, the initial fight fails and the body starts sending more troops to fight. As a result of this fight, your nose and throat swell and start producing a lot of mucus. You feel tired and uncomfortable because all your body's energy is being used to fight the virus.
A common misconception among us is that you get a cold when you get wet or cold . But that's actually a myth. A cold is caused by a virus, not by the cold. However, if you're very tired, stressed, or have allergies to your nose and throat, you're at a slightly higher risk of catching a cold.
What are the common symptoms of a cold?
There are several common symptoms that you will experience when you have a cold. Sometimes these can be confused with flu symptoms.
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Sore throat | Itchy throat or sore throat. |
| Sneezing | Frequent sneezing. |
| Nasal congestion | Nasal congestion that makes it difficult to breathe. |
| Tears flowing from the eyes | Eyes red and teary. |
| Mucus discharge | Runny nose or mucus in the throat. |
Important: If you have symptoms such as a high fever, severe body and muscle aches, it is more likely that you have the flu than a cold. If in doubt, it is best to see a doctor for advice.
Why do young children often catch colds?
If you have a young child, you've probably experienced this all too well. Young children get colds much more often than adults. Some children can get them as many as 5-7 times a year. There are several main reasons for this.
- Close contact: Children spend most of their time in close contact with other children at schools and daycare centers, so the chances of spreading the disease from one person to another are high.
- Lack of hygiene habits: Children are not as concerned as adults about hygiene habits, such as covering their noses with their elbows when sneezing, washing their hands frequently, and avoiding touching other people's faces.
- Developing immunity: Children's bodies have not yet developed the ability to resist different types of viruses (immunity) that adults have. Therefore, they are more likely to get sick when a new virus enters the body.
When do you need to see a doctor?
Most colds clear up in 7 to 10 days. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to see a doctor .
Sometimes, a cold can cause secondary infections. This means that the lungs, sinuses, or ears that have been weakened by the virus can become infected with bacteria. In that case, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics .
Remember: Antibiotics only work against bacteria. Antibiotics have no effect on viruses that cause colds. So don't take antibiotics on your own without medical advice.
Take-Home Message
- A cold is an illness caused by a virus. It is not caused by exposure to cold or getting wet.
- It is spread through contact with an infected person, touching objects they have touched, or through droplets that are released into the air through sneezing and coughing.
- When you have a cold, it is very important to get plenty of rest, drink fluids, and eat nutritious foods.
- Since children often catch colds, practicing good hygiene habits (such as frequent hand washing) can help control the spread of the disease.
- If symptoms persist for more than 10 days, if you have a high fever or severe body aches, be sure to see your doctor .
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