Here Come the Colds!

By: Lena Bhargava, MD, APC West Chester

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Cough, sniffle, sneeze!  The cold season has begun and doctors’ offices are starting to see many individuals with similar symptoms and complaints. Upper respiratory infection, better known as the common cold, is one of the most common illnesses leading to visits to primary care physicians. The average child will get 6 - 10 colds per year and this number increases if the child attends daycare. The average adolescent/adult will suffer from 2 - 4 colds per year.

The common cold is the result of more than 200 different viruses, the majority being caused by the rhinovirus, followed by the coronavirus. The cold season begins in September and usually continues through March, as this is when the viruses are most active. Despite popular belief, you don't catch a cold by being out in the cold. This time of the year is accompanied by low humidity and cold viruses thrive in this environment. Low humidity causes the nasal lining to become dry and makes it more vulnerable to infection by these viruses. People are more likely to be indoors due to the cold weather and therefore in close contact with others. You can “catch a cold” via exposure to respiratory droplets found in the air after someone coughs or sneezes or by having direct contact with someone who has a cold and then touching your own eyes, nose or mouth.

Symptoms of the common cold include:

1. runny nose due to increased mucous production
2. congestion due to swelling of the nasal membrane/lining
3. sneezing caused by irritation of the nasal lining
4. cough due to the mucous dripping into the throat and acting as an irritant

Cold symptoms will start 2 - 3 days after being in contact with the virus and can last up to 1 - 2 weeks.  The symptoms can be very similar to other medical conditions such as bacterial infections and allergies, therefore it is important to consult a physician for a diagnosis.

There is no cure for the common cold.  Antibiotics will not help as the common cold is caused by a virus. Increasing fluids, nasal saline and humidifiers can be used to keep the nasal membranes moist.  In children who are unable to clear their congestion, a bulb syringe can be used to suction the nose.  Certain OTC (over-the-counter) medications may be used to help relieve symptoms. Consult with your physician before giving any medications to your child.

Here are some tips to keep yourself out of the doctor's office and “cold-free” this season! 

• Wash your hands or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer prior to touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Sneeze or cough into a tissue, then throw it away. If you don't have a tissue, turn your head away from others and cough into your shoulder or arm.
• Avoid sharing drinks, utensils, etc.
• Educate your children on good hand-washing techniques.
• Keep toys and play areas properly cleaned, especially when multiple children are playing together. 
• Lastly, as difficult as this may be, try and avoid close contact with individuals that are suffering from a cold. 

Have a healthy and happy Holiday Season!!!

Disclaimer: The health information provided in these articles is meant to serve as helpful information on certain topics. It is not a substitute for personal medical care. Every condition is different and therefore, a complete exam by your doctor is the only way to accurately diagnose certain conditions.