How does a common cold progress over 5 days. What are the typical symptoms at each stage of a cold. When do cold symptoms usually peak and subside. How can you differentiate between a cold, allergies, and other respiratory illnesses.

Understanding the Common Cold: Onset and Progression

The common cold, a widespread upper respiratory tract infection, typically follows a predictable pattern of symptom development over several days. While individual experiences may vary, most adults begin to notice the first signs of a cold within one to three days after exposure to a cold-causing virus. Understanding this progression can help you better manage your symptoms and know what to expect as the illness runs its course.

What are the primary stages of a common cold? Generally, a cold progresses through three main stages:

1. Initial onset (Days 1-2)
2. Peak symptoms (Days 3-5)
3. Recovery phase (Days 6-7 and beyond)

Let’s explore each stage in detail to gain a comprehensive understanding of the cold’s lifecycle.

Days 1-2: The Initial Onset of Cold Symptoms

The first two days of a cold are characterized by the emergence of initial symptoms. During this stage, you may experience:

• A scratchy or sore throat
• Nasal congestion or stuffiness
• A runny nose
• Mild fatigue

Why do these symptoms appear first? These initial signs indicate that the virus is directly affecting your respiratory system. The body’s immune response is beginning to kick in, leading to inflammation in the nasal passages and throat.

How should you respond to these early symptoms? It’s crucial to prioritize rest during this initial stage. Adequate rest helps minimize fatigue and supports your immune system in fighting off the virus effectively.

Days 3-5: Peak Cold Symptoms and Their Management

As the cold progresses into days 3-5, symptoms often intensify and may include:

• Increased nasal congestion
• Thicker nasal discharge (possibly yellow or green in color)
• Development of a cough
• Continued sore throat
• Possible headache or body aches

Why does nasal discharge change color? The shift in color and consistency of nasal mucus is typically due to an increase in white blood cells, which your immune system deploys to combat the virus. This change doesn’t necessarily indicate a bacterial infection.

How can you manage these peak symptoms? Consider the following strategies:

1. Stay hydrated with water, herbal teas, or clear broths
2. Use over-the-counter decongestants or cough suppressants as needed
3. Apply a warm compress to sinuses for relief
4. Continue to prioritize rest and sleep

Days 6-7: The Recovery Phase of a Common Cold

For most individuals, cold symptoms begin to subside around days 6-7. During this recovery phase:

• Nasal congestion starts to clear
• Cough may persist but becomes less frequent
• Overall energy levels begin to improve
• Sore throat and other discomforts diminish

How long does it typically take to fully recover from a cold? While the average duration of a cold is 7 to 10 days, some symptoms, particularly cough, may linger for up to six weeks as irritated nasal passages continue to heal.

Are there factors that can prolong recovery? Individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions such as diabetes may experience a longer recovery period or more severe symptoms. If you fall into this category, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Beyond Day 7: When to Consider Alternative Diagnoses

If your symptoms persist beyond a week or frequently recur, it may be time to consider alternative diagnoses. Two common conditions that can mimic or be mistaken for a cold are allergies and sinus infections.

Allergies vs. Cold: Key Differences

How can you distinguish between allergies and a cold? Allergies typically present with:

• Itchy eyes
• Clear nasal discharge
• Persistent nasal congestion
• Symptoms that can last for months

Sinus Infection vs. Cold: Distinctive Features

What are the hallmarks of a sinus infection? Sinus infections often involve:

• Facial pain or pressure, particularly around the eyes and forehead
• Thick, discolored nasal discharge
• Persistent nasal congestion
• Potential fever
• Symptoms lasting from one to three months or longer

When should you seek medical attention? If you suspect you may be dealing with allergies or a sinus infection rather than a simple cold, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and targeted treatment plan.

Differentiating Cold from COVID-19 and Influenza

In the current health landscape, it’s crucial to be able to distinguish between the common cold, COVID-19, and influenza. While these respiratory illnesses share some similarities, there are key differences to be aware of.

Common Cold vs. COVID-19

How does a common cold differ from COVID-19? While both are respiratory illnesses, there are some distinguishing factors:

• Fever: Less common in colds, more frequent in COVID-19
• Loss of taste or smell: Rarely occurs with colds, more common in COVID-19
• Onset: Cold symptoms typically develop gradually, while COVID-19 symptoms can appear more suddenly

Common Cold vs. Influenza

What sets a cold apart from the flu? Key differences include:

• Severity: Flu symptoms are generally more intense than cold symptoms
• Fever: More common and typically higher with flu
• Body aches: Usually more severe with flu
• Onset: Flu symptoms often come on more abruptly than cold symptoms

Is it possible to have multiple respiratory illnesses simultaneously? While rare, it is possible to be infected with more than one respiratory virus at the same time. This underscores the importance of proper diagnosis and care, especially if symptoms are severe or prolonged.

Preventing the Spread of Cold Viruses

Understanding the contagious period of a cold is crucial for preventing its spread. When are you most likely to transmit a cold to others?

• The contagious period typically begins 1-2 days before symptoms appear
• It continues throughout the duration of your symptoms
• You may remain contagious for up to two weeks in some cases

How can you minimize the risk of spreading your cold to others? Implement these preventive measures:

1. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
2. Use hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available
3. Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or a tissue when coughing or sneezing
4. Avoid close contact with others, especially during the peak of your symptoms
5. Stay home from work or school if possible to prevent spreading the virus

Boosting Your Immune System: Cold Prevention Strategies

While it’s not always possible to avoid catching a cold, there are steps you can take to strengthen your immune system and reduce your susceptibility to viral infections.

Lifestyle Factors for Immune Support

What daily habits can help bolster your immune defenses?

• Maintain a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Prioritize quality sleep (aim for 7-9 hours per night)
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day

Nutritional Support for Immune Function

Which nutrients are particularly important for immune health?

• Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens
• Vitamin D: Obtained through sunlight exposure and fortified foods
• Zinc: Present in lean meats, nuts, and seeds
• Probiotics: Found in fermented foods like yogurt and kefir

Can supplements help prevent colds? While a balanced diet is the best source of nutrients, some individuals may benefit from targeted supplementation under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Cold Remedies: Separating Fact from Fiction

A multitude of cold remedies exists, but not all are equally effective. Let’s examine some popular treatments and their scientific backing.

Evidence-Based Cold Treatments

Which remedies have shown promise in scientific studies?

• Zinc lozenges: May reduce the duration of cold symptoms if taken early
• Honey: Can help soothe sore throats and suppress coughs
• Nasal irrigation: May alleviate congestion and promote sinus drainage
• Steam inhalation: Can provide temporary relief from nasal congestion

Debunking Common Cold Myths

What are some popular cold remedies that lack scientific support?

• Vitamin C megadoses: While vitamin C is important for immune function, large doses haven’t been shown to prevent or cure colds
• Antibiotics: These are ineffective against viral infections like the common cold
• “Starving a fever, feeding a cold”: There’s no scientific basis for this old adage

How should you approach cold remedies? It’s best to focus on evidence-based treatments and consult with a healthcare provider before trying new or alternative remedies, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

When to Seek Medical Attention for a Cold

While most colds resolve on their own, certain circumstances warrant medical attention. When should you consider consulting a healthcare provider?

• Symptoms persist beyond 10 days without improvement
• You develop a high fever (above 101.3°F or 38.5°C)
• You experience severe sinus pain or headache
• You have difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Your symptoms worsen suddenly after initial improvement

Are there specific groups who should be more cautious with colds? Individuals with compromised immune systems, chronic health conditions, or those at the extremes of age (very young children or older adults) should be particularly vigilant and seek medical advice if cold symptoms become severe or prolonged.

Long-Term Health Impacts of Frequent Colds

While most people recover fully from colds without complications, frequent or severe colds can potentially have long-term health implications.

Potential Complications of Recurrent Colds

What are some possible long-term effects of frequent colds?

• Increased susceptibility to secondary bacterial infections
• Exacerbation of existing respiratory conditions like asthma
• Potential development of chronic sinusitis
• Temporary hearing loss due to middle ear inflammation

Strategies for Reducing Cold Frequency

How can you minimize your risk of catching frequent colds?

1. Practice good hand hygiene
2. Avoid touching your face, especially in public spaces
3. Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support your immune system
4. Consider getting an annual flu vaccine to reduce overall respiratory illness risk
5. Minimize close contact with individuals who have active cold symptoms

Can frequent colds indicate an underlying health issue? If you find yourself catching colds significantly more often than those around you, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying immune system concerns or other health conditions that could be increasing your susceptibility to infections.

The Future of Cold Treatment and Prevention

Research into the common cold continues to evolve, with scientists exploring new avenues for treatment and prevention. What developments are on the horizon for cold management?

Emerging Cold Treatments

What new approaches are researchers investigating?

• Antiviral nasal sprays targeting specific cold-causing viruses
• Gene therapy to boost the body’s natural antiviral defenses
• Probiotic formulations to enhance respiratory tract immunity
• Novel anti-inflammatory compounds to reduce cold symptom severity

Advancements in Cold Prevention

How might we prevent colds more effectively in the future?

• Development of a “universal” cold vaccine targeting multiple virus strains
• Improved understanding of individual genetic susceptibility to cold viruses
• Enhanced public health strategies leveraging big data and AI for outbreak prediction

While a cure for the common cold remains elusive, ongoing research continues to expand our understanding of these ubiquitous viruses and how to combat them more effectively. As we await these advancements, the best defense against colds remains a combination of preventive measures, prompt symptom management, and overall health maintenance.

Stages of the Common Cold: Your Day-by-Day Guide

The common cold is marked by waves of symptoms as it runs its course. Here’s what to expect during each stage of a cold.

By Beth GilbertMedically Reviewed by Justin Laube, MD

Reviewed: June 2, 2020

Medically Reviewed

Keeping a few things on hand can make weathering a cold a lot easier: cough medicine, tissues, a thermometer to check your temperature, and hot cups of tea.

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Yesterday you felt fine, but today your nose is running and your throat feels scratchy. Yep, those are the first symptoms of a cold, which typically appear in adults about one to three days after exposure to a cold-causing virus.

What are you likely to feel like the rest of your week? Most often, symptoms of this upper respiratory tract infection crest around day four, and go away on their own within 7 to 10 days, says Aaron E. Glatt, MD, the chief of infectious diseases and a hospital epidemiologist at Mount Sinai South Nassau in Oceanside, New York.

Keep in mind that while seasonal colds peak in the winter and spring, it is possible to get one any time of the year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Cold symptoms vary from person to person and can include:

• Sore or scratchy throat
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Headache
• Aching joints
• Fatigue

Be aware that a cold’s contagious period has its own life span; it usually starts one or two days before cold symptoms kick in and continues as long as your symptoms are present, according to Cedars-Sinai. So it’s important to prevent spreading the infection by washing your hands frequently, fully covering your mouth and nose with your elbow or a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and not touching others if at all possible.

What are the stages of a cold? Typically there are three.

Days 1 and 2: Stuffiness, Sore Throat, and Runny Nose

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“Although you can have a cold start with a number of different symptoms, the most common first symptoms are congestion, runny nose, and sore throat, signs that the virus is directly affecting your respiratory system,” says Nathan Favini, MD, an internist and the medical director of the nationwide healthcare system Forward.

In this first stage, it’s especially important to rest as much as possible to minimize fatigue and keep your immune system at full power.

Days 3 to 5: Cough and More Nasal Congestion

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Nasal symptoms continue to develop, peaking during the third and fourth days. You may notice that mucus from your runny nose has become thicker, with a yellow or green tinge. This usually is due to a spike in the number of white blood cells your immune system has dispatched to overcome the virus, according to the Mayo Clinic. As you get better over the next few days, the discharge tends to clear up. In the meantime, however, a cough may develop in response to postnasal drip, says Dr. Favini.

Days 6 and 7: Symptoms Ease

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The average duration of a cold is 7 to 10 days, and most people recover without any specific treatment. But cold symptoms may last longer or become more severe in people who have immune problems or other underlying health issues, such as diabetes, says Soma Mandal, MD, an internist with the Summit Medical Group in New Jersey. If you have a medical condition that puts you at increased risk for complications, reach out to your healthcare provider.

Be aware that it may take up to six weeks for a cough to disappear even after other symptoms fade, Dr. Mandal says. Usually, this is due to postnasal drip, which can continue to form while swollen and irritated nasal passages heal, she explains.

Beyond a Week: Could It Be Something Else?

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If you’ve been nursing a cold, but haven’t gotten better after a week, or if cold symptoms return often, you may be dealing with allergies or a sinus infection rather than a cold.

Symptoms commonly associated with allergies, which can last months, include:

• Itchy eyes
• Clear runny nose
• Nasal congestion

Symptoms of a sinus infection, which can last anywhere from one to three months or more, can include:

• Nasal congestion
• Sore throat
• Pressure or pain around the eyes and forehead
• Fatigue
• Fever

If you suspect allergies or a sinus infection, Dr. Glatt recommends seeing your doctor to get a complete evaluation.

Distinguishing Between Cold, COVID-19, and the Flu

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It can be difficult to tell these illnesses apart because they share so many traits. What’s more, because they are caused by different germs that affect the respiratory system, it’s possible — although rare — for them to overlap. In other words, you could have more than one ailment at the same time, according to the CDC.

One clue for distinguishing between them is fever, Mandal notes. “Fevers typically are not present for adults with the common cold, whereas with COVID it’s kind of common to have a low-grade fever, and you will probably experience a fever initially with the flu,” she says.

In general, CDC experts say, flu symptoms tend to come on suddenly rather than build up gradually as they do with the common cold. They are also more intense and last longer.

Symptoms of COVID-19 also seem to develop gradually, according to a study published on May 5, 2020, in Annals of Internal Medicine. And COVID-19 symptoms can include ones not typically seen with a cold or the flu, such as diarrhea and a new loss of taste or smell, according to the CDC.

As always, call your medical provider if any symptoms become severe or concerning to you. Be especially aware of the emergency warning signs for COVID-19. Someone showing any of the following signs should seek emergency medical care immediately:

• Trouble breathing
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion
• Inability to wake up or stay awake
• Bluish lips or face

Additional reporting by Nuna Alberts.

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A Look at the Life Cycle of a Cold

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The common cold typically has three stages, during which you may experience different symptoms. The cold can often spread to others as long as you have active symptoms.

You might think cold season is only active during the winter, but that’s not the case. According to the Mayo Clinic, though you have a higher chance of developing a cold in the fall and winter, you can get a cold anytime during the year.

The CDC reports that adults have an average of two to three colds each year, while children can have even more.

And while you might be familiar with the symptoms and effects of the common cold, there’s a chance you’re unaware of:

• how this upper respiratory virus progresses
• how to treat it
• when to call the doctor

While you can’t cure the common cold, there’s a lot to be said for prevention and self-care tips as your body works to rid itself of the virus.

If you’re concerned you might be at risk of catching a cold or you currently have one, we’ve got you covered. Below, we’ve compiled an overview of everything from stages and symptoms to recovery tips.

The tickle of an impending cold is all too familiar and can cause the desperate need to down glasses of orange juice and use lots of hand sanitizer.

Unfortunately, if your throat is already tingling or scratchy, it’s likely one of the 200 strains of the common cold virus — most commonly the rhinovirus — has already settled in for the next 7 to 10 days.

The most common symptoms to look out for during this stage are:

• tingling or scratchy throat
• body aches
• tiredness or fatigue

Dr. Doug Nunamaker, a family practice physician and chief medical officer forAtlas MD, explains that it’s in these first days of a cold that most people don’t do enough to care for their symptoms.

Though there are a number of over-the-counter (OTC) treatments and remedies that can ease the symptoms of a cold during this stage, Nunamaker also suggests reaching for one of the most common dishes for people with a cold or flu: chicken noodle soup.

“It’s easy on the stomach, soothes the throat, [and] provides fluid for hydration,” he explains. If you have a fever or are sweating, he adds, chicken soup can also help replenish some of the salt your body might lose.

In terms of contagion levels, Nunamaker says your cold is contagious if you present “active symptoms.” So, the tickle in your throat, runny nose, body aches, and even low-grade fever mean you’re at risk of spreading the bug to everyone around you.

Recovery tips

• Take decongestants and cough syrup but avoid mixing combination medications (e. g., don’t take ibuprofen separately if it’s also included in your cold medicine).
• Get plenty of sleep and rest.
• Stay hydrated.
• OTC Zinc supplements or lozenges have been shown to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms, when taken soon after the onset of symptoms. However, a side effect may be a bad taste or nausea.

Ways to avoid spreading the cold virus while you’re still contagious:

• Avoid public contact if at all possible by staying home from work and school.
• Avoid physical contact with other people, such as kissing or shaking hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• Fully cover your cough and sneeze in your elbow or a tissue. Immediately dispose of the tissue and wash your hands.

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This is when the virus is at its peak intensity. You might find during this time that everything hurts, and your face feels like a running faucet. You may even experience a fever, which can be alarming.

Because you have a virus, however, you have a compromised immune system. A fever, explains Nunamaker, is your body’s way of defending your immune system.

“[A fever is] nature’s antibiotic. Let it ride,” he explains.

Nunamaker adds that a fever isn’t a concern until it’s 102 to 103°F (39°C). In fact, up to 100.4°F (38°C), you’re considered to have an “elevated temperature,” not a fever.

Fevers with a cold can be easily confused with the flu. You should remember that the flu has radically different, and far more severe symptoms, which come on hard, fast, and usually include a headache.

The most common symptoms to look out for during this stage of a cold are:

• sore throat
• cough
• congestion or runny nose
• fatigue
• aches
• chills or low-grade fever

As was the case in stage 1, if your symptoms are still active, you’re still contagious. During this time, you should continue to be mindful about being around others and avoid physical interactions.

Recovery tips

• Avoid smoking, if you smoke, as it paralyzes the cilia in the lungs and takes longer to heal.
• Avoid asking your healthcare provider for an antibiotic. This is a viral infection and an antibiotic will not help. In fact, it could make things worse.
• Use a cough suppressant if you find it difficult to sleep.
• Take ibuprofen for body aches.
• Get your daily amount of vitamin C (1 to 2 grams per day) via fresh fruit or supplements.
• Gargle with salt water.
• Use a humidifier, or take a steam bath or shower.
• Use Chloraseptic or Cepacol lozenges. The benzocaine is a topical numbing agent and can help soothe sore throats.
• Continue to take zinc supplements or lozenges.

While your body fights the cold virus, it’s vital to stay hydrated throughout all three stages of your cold.

A cold typically wraps up around day 10. There are, of course, exceptions. If you’re still feeling the effects, your symptoms worsen, or your fever increases then it’s time to re-evaluate and think about a different course of treatment.

When should I call a doctor?

1. While it’s tempting to call the doctor when you’re feeling crummy for a couple of days, it’s best to avoid doing so until after your symptoms have persisted for longer than 10. Call a doctor if your symptoms worsen after this time.

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Some people might also experience what’s known as the post-infectious cough, which is a nagging cough that can last an average of 18 days after your cold subsides. If, however, all your other symptoms have ended, you can consider yourself free and clear.

If the other “active” symptoms are still present, you’re still contagious and should continue to follow the tips to prevent spreading the virus.

The most common symptoms to look out for during this stage are the following:

• cough
• congestion
• runny nose
• fatigue

Recovery tips

• Continue to cover your cough with your sleeve at the elbow or with a tissue, and wash your hands.
• Continue taking an OTC ibuprofen, decongestant, cough suppressant, or antihistamine, as needed.

Here’s a list of cold remedies you can buy now:

• ibuprofen
• Chloraseptic or Cepacol lozenges
• OTC zinc supplements or lozenges
• decongestants
• cough syrup
• vitamin C
• antihistamine

You can also shop online for humidifiers and hand sanitizers.

Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before adding any treatment options to your current healthcare regimen to avoid any potential negative interactions.

When it comes to a cold, you’ve got to accept that it’s happening and ride it out. The very best thing you can do is take actions to prevent a cold by:

• washing your hands frequently with soap and water
• avoiding any unnecessary physical contact where you could contract the virus
• staying hydrated and well-rested

Finally, be mindful of how your health affects other people, especially those with compromised immune systems, and stay home when you’re contagious.

Brandi Koskie is the founder of Banter Strategy, where she serves as a content strategist and health journalist for dynamic clients. She’s got a wanderlust spirit, believes in the power of kindness, and works and plays in the foothills of Denver with her family.

Colds. What is important to know about it? – In the vast majority of cases, the common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, which leads to inflammation of the mucous membrane lining this part of the respiratory tract. – Articles about health

In the vast majority of cases, the common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, which leads to inflammation of the mucous membrane lining this part of the respiratory tract.

Common symptoms are rhinorrhea (runny nose), sneezing, pharyngitis (sore throat).
The viral infection we call the “cold” can often be treated without medication with rest, plenty of fluids, and some over-the-counter medications to help manage individual symptoms. So far, there are no drugs that are effective against pathogens of colds.

Smoking “helps” the development of a cold, including in the presence of children, as it paralyzes the ciliated cells (ciliated epithelium) that keep the airways clear. Colds can be spread through the hands, not just through the air. To prevent the spread of viruses, avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose with your hands, and wash your hands often when you are sick or in contact with a sick person.

Some other diseases are similar in symptoms to the common cold, but require immediate medical attention and special medicines. If you have a high fever (a temperature above 38.0°C) accompanied by chills and coughing up thick mucus, or if coughing and deep breathing causes severe chest pain, you may have pneumonia. You should immediately consult a doctor to establish a diagnosis and start appropriate treatment.

The safest, best, and cheapest way to treat a cold is to do almost nothing at all and let it go away on its own. If necessary, take medications to relieve individual symptoms.

How to treat a cold

Non-drug therapy

warm or hot), rest and to give up smoking. The only means that can in any way try to resist viruses are interferons (effective when used on the first – second day of illness – then useless) and CIP (Complex immunoglobulin preparation) – effective when taken with food during the first 3 – 5 days of illness .

In case of rhinorrhea (if the nose runs in a stream), it is not necessary to use medicines, but it is better to be patient, because with rhinorrhea the mucus is drained, expelling the infection from the body, so no drugs should be taken. However, if the rhinorrhea lasts more than a week, then consult a doctor.

For the same reason, it is not necessary to treat a productive cough (when something is brought out when coughing).

If symptoms cannot be controlled by these measures and these symptoms interfere with normal activities, the following safest and most effective remedies are recommended.

If your nose is stuffy, especially if you cannot breathe freely, use a nasal drop or spray containing oxymetazoline hydrochloride (eg AFRIN), xylometazoline hydrochloride (eg OTRIVIN NOSAL SPRAY), or phenylephrine hydrochloride (eg drops or nasal spray NEO-SYNEFRIN). But do not use them for more than three days.

No oral decongestants (tablets, syrups) should be used for nasal congestion. These medicines can increase your heart rate and blood pressure. In addition, they act excitingly and worsen the process of falling asleep. When using a spray or nasal drops for 1-3 days (no more), 25 times less of the drug enters your body and, moreover, it enters the nose, that is, where it is needed, and is not distributed throughout the body, as is the case with oral medication.

For fever, headaches and body aches, use aspirin or paracetamol if necessary (paracetamol is preferred in children).

Coughing is a necessary evil

The lungs are constantly cleaning themselves to ensure effective breathing. Normally, mucus lines the walls of the lungs and protects them from foreign particles (smoke, dust, viruses). The cilia of the ciliated epithelium expel mucus with adhering particles from the lungs. Coughing also helps to more quickly remove unwanted substances from the lungs.

Cough is beneficial as long as it removes unwanted substances such as phlegm (mucus) from the airways and lungs. Such a cough is called productive and often occurs with colds, bronchitis and pneumonia. On the other hand, a dry, hacking (unproductive) cough can be irritating and interfere with sleep. Cough can also be one of the symptoms of a chronic disease, such as asthma, or it can be caused by cigarette smoke.

A productive cough is part of the cold and flu recovery process. Every effort must be made to remove unwanted material from the lungs by “release” of sputum. This is the purpose of the expectorant, which thins the secretions so that they are more easily removed by coughing (expectoration). The best expectorant is water, especially in warm liquids such as soup, which loosens phlegm and helps moisten the airways. Humid environment also contributes to this. You should drink plenty of fluids and, if possible, humidify the air in the house with a humidifier or by evaporating water with a vaporizer. In winter, you can simply put a tray of water on the radiator. Doctors of the old school recommend, for the same purpose, the use of enzymes (mezim, panzinorm, festal) because of the pepsin they contain. Even if this is somehow incorrect from a modern scientific point of view, regarding coughing, then taking enzymes for colds is still useful, as it accelerates the recovery of the body, or rather the pancreas, which suffers from any cold (the so-called reactive pancreatitis).

Unproductive cough, dry cough that does not produce sputum, can be treated with antitussive drugs. For a cough that interferes with your normal sleep or greatly weakens the body, you can also use one of these remedies. One-component antitussive drugs should be used. Rest and plenty of fluids are also recommended in the treatment of cough.
Codeine, found in many prescription cough medicines, is not recommended for coughing. Codeine is addictive and may contribute to constipation.

When coughing, if the phlegm (mucus) becomes greenish, yellow or foul-smelling, if the cough is accompanied by high fever lasting several days, or if coughing or deep breathing causes severe chest pain or shortness of breath, seek medical advice . Any of these symptoms may indicate pneumonia. If you cough up blood, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Fever, headache and muscle pain The common cold is sometimes accompanied by fever, headache and muscle pain. These symptoms are best managed without medication, with rest and fluid intake, or with aspirin or paracetamol.

It is not recommended to give aspirin for fever to a patient under 40 years of age: he may have the flu, not a cold. People who take aspirin for the flu (or chickenpox) are at an increased risk of developing Reye’s syndrome. This is a rather rare but fatal disease, the victims of which, if they survive, remain disabled for life.
Seek medical attention if body temperature rises above 39.4°C or if fever above 38°C persists for more than four days. In these cases, the patient does not appear to have a cold.

Seek medical attention if:

• Fever above 38.3°C accompanied by chills and cough with thick mucus (especially greenish or bad smell)
• Sharp chest pain on deep inspiration
• Cold-like symptoms that do not improve within seven days
• Fever above 39,4 ⁰ C
• Hemoptysis
• Sore throat with one of the following:

1. Pus (yellowish white patches) on the tonsils or in the throat
2. Fever above 38.3 ⁰ C
3. Enlarged or painful to the touch lymph nodes on the front of the neck
4. Contact with a patient who has a documented case of tonsillitis or diphtheria
5. Rash that appears during or after pharyngitis
6. History of rheumatic fever, rheumatism of the cardiovascular system, kidney disease, chronic lung disease such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis.

Why there is a “protracted” cough

Sometimes the above recipes “fail” – cough, malaise continues after 2 or more weeks from the onset of acute respiratory infections (colds). If this happens, you need to do tests and call a doctor.

In the vast majority of cases, this is an “attack” of a new infection on an organism weakened by a cold. These infections have different names and fight them in different ways. Most often, mycoplasma “attacks”, followed by cases of “aggression” of pneumocystis. Sometimes mycoplasma and pneumocysts combine and bring the patient to a constant temperature of 37-38 degrees, heavy sweating, poor sleep (cough keeps you awake, wakes you up), weakness (asthenia).

Less commonly, a persistent cough is caused by fungi (candida) or chlamydia (usually pulmonary). Another cause of such a cough can be tuberculosis. In infants, similar phenomena may occur due to cytomegalovirus.

Any of these infections, if not properly diagnosed and treated, can greatly impair the quality of life. Bronchitis is most common, but pneumonia can also develop. In the US, 40% of bronchitis in children is mycoplasmal. The main alarming symptom is a long-term (more than 2 weeks) persistent cough. Sometimes mycoplasma, pneumocyst, chlamydia and cytomegalovirus “stick” to children with bronchial asthma, asthmatic bronchitis – attacks become more frequent. After diagnosing and treating these infections, children forget about bronchial asthma for a long time.

The stability of these microorganisms in the external environment is low – they quickly die, so the main method of infection is close household contact. People can become infected with mycoplasmosis or pneumocystosis (less often chlamydia) in any “close” team – at work, at the institute, in kindergarten, at school, in the yard, on regular guests, from constantly coughing relatives.

“Candida” cough usually occurs as a consequence of immoderate or improper use of antibacterial drugs, such as Biseptol, Bactrim, Septrim, Ampicillin, Ampiox, etc.

In today’s economic and, consequently, social situation, tuberculosis, as a “disease of the poor”, can overtake you in public transport, in a shop, or at a train station. The only reassurance is that although there are many “contagious” people, it is quite difficult to get infected with short contact. It is better to start diagnosing tuberculosis at a polyclinic phthisiatrician or at a tuberculosis dispensary at the place of residence. In difficult cases, or if you do not want to go to the dispensary, you can use the possibilities of paid diagnostics – determining bacteria by PCR or detecting the level of antibodies to Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Diagnosis of mycoplasmosis, pneumocystosis, chlamydia, candidiasis and cytomegalovirus is quite difficult – there are no signs characteristic of only “one” disease, and the microbes themselves are so small that they cannot be detected with conventional microscopy. Mycoplasmosis, pneumocystosis, chlamydia, candidiasis, and cytomegalovirus infection (CMVI) are detected either by smears examined by DNA diagnostic methods, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), or by immunofluorescence (which is less reliable), or by examining blood from a vein for the presence of antibodies to these pathogens.

There are no “home” remedies for these diseases, but modern antibacterial drugs are highly effective – the cure rate reaches 95%.
Preventive measures. Without studying the immune status in the cold season, you can drink 2-3 courses of herbal adaptogens – ginseng, eleutherococcus. The drugs are taken in the morning and afternoon, and in the evening, to relieve daytime stress and improve sleep, we need soothing decoctions of herbs – valerian, motherwort.

In order not to get sick during an epidemic of viral diseases, in addition to vitamins and adaptogens, it is good to take homeopathic medicines Gripchel, Antigrippin, Influcid. A flu shot every year will protect you from the flu. Vaccination with influenza vaccine should be done before the onset of an influenza epidemic, so that immunity has time to develop. It makes no sense to get vaccinated against influenza in the midst of an epidemic, or when a person is already ill, since the vaccine will not protect against the disease.
For people who often suffer from otitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis, there are drugs that protect against staphylococci, streptococci, Haemophilus influenzae, Klebsiella. This is Ribomunil, Bronchomunal. It is better to entrust the selection of a prevention scheme to a doctor.

If someone in the family falls ill, the rest should take preventive measures. It would be nice to spread finely chopped or crushed garlic on saucers in the apartment. You can put it in a pre-scalded teapot and breathe through the spout. Drink Tonsilgon or Antiseptin.

Inhalations of anti-inflammatory herbs – St. John’s wort, sage, eucalyptus or propolis inhalations – can also increase the body’s defenses. As an inhaler, you can use a regular teapot – brew the herb with boiling water and inhale through the spout. You can use ready-made preparations – oils, solutions and tinctures – eucalyptus, propolis, fir oil, “Evkabal”, “Doctor MOM”, “Bronchicum”. The most convenient inhaler is the Russian ultrasonic “Musson”.

Multivitamin preparations (Mul-Titabs, Unicap, Centrum and others) can be used as a prophylaxis for weakening the immune system. Yeast preparations (yeast extract “Favorite”, pangamin, etc.) have a good restorative effect. Multivitamin and yeast preparations are especially needed in autumn and spring, when a natural weakening of immunity occurs.

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A cold in a child: how to treat it correctly

Shcherbakova Alla Anatolievna

Pediatrician

Clinic “Mother and Child” Savelovskaya

Many parents are ready for the fact that babies will pick up common, including seasonal infections, which is typical for childhood. Some parents study the methods of treating SARS and colds in advance, read about it from experienced mothers in blogs and diaries, consult with doctors they know, and watch medical programs. But even despite the fact that the child’s body has a powerful immune system from birth, this protection is imperfect. Therefore, no matter how informed the mother is, when the child becomes ill, she has a lot of questions that require qualified answers.

What is ARI and SARS

Most often, children experience acute respiratory diseases, abbreviated as acute respiratory infections or colds. This is especially evident when visiting children’s groups, where they come into contact with other kids and actually exchange various pathogens. The mothers of “kindergarten” children are very familiar with the phrase: “We go for 2 days, then 2 weeks – on sick leave.”

A cold can be both viral and bacterial, even fungal and of a different nature, in 70-80% of cases it is of a viral nature. It is impossible to establish the origin of a cold with accuracy on a pediatric examination, as well as “by eye” to distinguish one infection from another. However, there are certain signs that indicate the action of viruses, harmful bacteria and other pathogens. For example, mucous nasal discharge testifies in favor of an acute respiratory viral infection, which usually begins with a slight malaise, loss of appetite, capriciousness, sleep disturbance in a child. This is a prodromal period, it lasts from several hours to 1-2 days. And such a viral infection as the flu begins acutely, immediately with a very high temperature, intoxication, there is almost no prodromal period, dry cough appears in the late stages of the disease. Often ARVI goes away with catarrhal symptoms: nasal congestion, change in tone of voice, “circles”, “blue” under the eyes, runny nose, cough, sore throat and swallowing.

What to do?

First of all, you need to remember that parents should not panic if the child has a fever and other unpleasant symptoms of a cold. Any mood of the mother is transmitted to the baby. A cold with a competent approach is simply MUST go away in 5-7 days without complications. And it is important to know that the treatment of a cold is complex, which includes the main drugs – antiviral, antibacterial, etc., as well as symptomatic therapy. You should not rely on just one kind of medicine as a panacea, a magic pill from an advertisement or the advice of a pharmacy worker.

How to treat?

• Antivirals. Now there is a lot of false information regarding antiviral drugs. They are credited with mythical side effects and actions. If this comes from a doctor, then he must provide data confirming his point of view in official sources, which are state medical institutions, major scientific journals.
• Antibiotics. As for antibiotics, their use is currently limited by very clear indications, contraindications, age of the patient, etc. In addition, antibiotics, especially with uncontrolled, frequent use, contribute to the formation of new strains of harmful bacteria that are difficult to treat. Usually, against the background of antibiotic treatment, it is customary to prescribe biological products – live microbes that make up the human intestinal microflora. But there is an opinion that the antibiotic has a detrimental effect on these bacteria, and such therapy does not bring the desired result.
• Auxiliaries. In the treatment of colds of any origin, symptomatic therapy is used, the action of which is directed against the symptoms of the disease. They are called auxiliary, as they help to alleviate the course of a cold. They do not get rid of the cause of SARS, but the child’s own antibodies work against viruses.
• How to treat a runny nose? In case of a runny nose, a nasal toilet with saline solutions is performed. The procedure is simple, but requires certain skills and caution. To do this, you should seat the child with his back to him, first clean his nose. For babies, this can be done with cotton buds (for children under six months old, only with ordinary cotton turundas), and at an older age, children can already blow their nose. After that, you need to raise your chin, holding the child’s face with your palm in a raised state. Using a pipette, drip a saline solution into both nasal passages, lower the child’s head forward. Part of the medicine may spill out of the nose, but the result of such a procedure will still be achieved. If there are no special recommendations from the pediatrician of the sick child, you can use a pipette and normal saline. But it is preferable with a sterile solution based on sea water. It is a delusion to think that washing a child’s nose will be addictive or the snot will flow out on its own. Part, of course, can leak out, but if you do not clean your nose, there is a high risk of infection spreading to the underlying airways, the development of complications such as inflammation of the trachea, bronchi, and lungs.
  If the runny nose is profuse, watery, painful, accompanied by nasal congestion, vasoconstrictor drugs (based on oxymetazoline, xylometazoline) are used in the form of drops at bedtime, before walking with a child. This helps the baby to have a good rest in a dream without waking up, and on a walk it is normal to breathe through the nose without taking cold air into the mouth. It should not be instilled into the nose of a child in a supine state, since there is a high probability of a change in pressure during such manipulation and there is a risk of otitis media. All instillations must be done while sitting. The use of special preparations in the form of soft (spray with limited jet pressure) should be carried out with great care, since there is also a risk of promoting the spread of infection under pressure.
• Antipyretics. Often there are questions about the use of antipyretics, for children – these are drugs based on paracetamol or ibuprofen, for babies – in syrup, suppositories. It should be noted that if there are no special recommendations in this regard, it is necessary to reduce the temperature above 38.3-38.5°C. If the child feels well, plays, has an appetite, and, in general, tolerates temperature well, antipyretic drugs can not be used. If parents see that the child’s condition is bad, he refuses to eat and drink, becomes lethargic, vomiting occurs, headache, the temperature rises further, you can start giving antipyretics even at a low temperature.
• How to treat a cough? Questions about cough are the most frequent and sometimes the most difficult at a pediatric appointment for SARS. It is best if the doctor dynamically observes the coughing child. In this case, the specialist can distinguish changes in the tone of the voice, a barking component, a dry or wet cough, wheezing, localization of wheezing. If the pediatrician recommends taking an x-ray, you should not refuse such an examination, this will help to make the correct diagnosis and prescribe adequate treatment. Currently, in the treatment of cough, inhalation drugs are widely used – through a special device – an inhaler. This tactic reduces the systemic effect of the drug on the child’s body, where the drug reaches the point of its application – large and medium bronchi, and even alveoli. Inhalers can be used from the very birth of a child, but it is necessary to pay attention to the type of device, the medicinal substances recommended for it, their dosages and frequency of use.

Activities before the doctor arrives

Sometimes, especially during the season of high incidence of influenza and colds, there are difficulties with a doctor’s visit, you have to wait for an appointment, the doctor does not have time to come as quickly as parents would like. There are measures that can be taken before the arrival of a specialist. It is necessary to measure the temperature of the child and write down the data on the thermometry carried out in a diary, which is then shown to the doctor. If the temperature is high, do not wrap or even dress the child warmly. At home, you can generally strip to your underwear. Disposable diapers are also recommended to be removed from infants. Do not forget about physical methods of cooling – you can wipe it with cool water, you can put a cloth moistened with water on your head, stomach, places of the main vessels. A sick child should be given plenty of fractional water, even if he refuses to drink, it is necessary to constantly offer from a teaspoon, moisten his lips.

There are no children who do not get sick. Everyone gets sick, only some often, and others not so much. The main thing to remember is that any medicines should be prescribed by a doctor at a full-time appointment, after an examination.

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to the doctor – Shcherbakova Alla Anatolyevna

Clinic “Mother and Child” Savelovskaya

Vaccination for Children Pediatrics

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