How long does a cold typically last. What are the early signs of a cold. Which cold remedies are scientifically proven to work. How can you prevent the spread of a cold virus. When should you seek medical attention for cold symptoms.

The Common Cold: Incubation Period and Early Symptoms

The common cold, a widespread viral infection affecting millions each year, has a typical incubation period of 2-3 days. During this time, the virus multiplies in the body without producing noticeable symptoms. Once the incubation period ends, the first signs of illness begin to appear.

Early symptoms of a cold often include:

• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Mild fatigue

As the infection progresses, additional symptoms may develop, such as:

• Coughing
• Headaches
• Body aches
• Mild fever (less common)

Is it possible to distinguish a cold from other respiratory infections? While many symptoms overlap with conditions like the flu or COVID-19, there are some key differences. Colds typically have a gradual onset and milder symptoms compared to the flu, which often starts suddenly with more severe symptoms. COVID-19 can present similarly to a cold but may also include loss of taste or smell, shortness of breath, and a higher fever.

Duration of the Common Cold: What to Expect

How long does a typical cold last? For most individuals, cold symptoms persist for 7-10 days. However, this duration can vary depending on factors such as the specific virus causing the infection, the person’s overall health, and their immune system strength.

The progression of a cold often follows this general timeline:

1. Days 1-3: Onset of initial symptoms (sore throat, runny nose)
2. Days 4-7: Peak of symptoms (congestion, coughing, fatigue)
3. Days 8-10: Gradual improvement and resolution of symptoms

Can a cold last longer than 10 days? In some cases, certain symptoms, such as a lingering cough, may persist for a few additional days. If symptoms continue beyond two weeks or worsen after initially improving, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional, as this could indicate a secondary infection or another underlying condition.

Effective Cold Remedies: Separating Fact from Fiction

While there is no cure for the common cold, various remedies can help alleviate symptoms and support recovery. Which treatments have scientific backing, and which are merely myths?

Evidence-Based Cold Remedies

• Rest: Allowing the body to focus energy on fighting the infection
• Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids to thin mucus and prevent dehydration
• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for headaches and body aches
• Nasal saline rinses: To relieve congestion and flush out viruses
• Honey: May help suppress coughs, especially in children over 12 months
• Zinc: Some studies suggest it may reduce the duration of symptoms if taken early

Remedies with Limited or No Evidence

• Vitamin C: While it may boost overall immune function, evidence for reducing cold duration is limited
• Echinacea: Research results are mixed, with no strong evidence of effectiveness
• Garlic: Despite its antimicrobial properties, there’s insufficient evidence for cold treatment

Do any natural remedies show promise in treating colds? While research is ongoing, some studies suggest that elderberry extract and pelargonium sidoides (African geranium) may have potential benefits. However, more robust clinical trials are needed to confirm their efficacy.

Preventing the Spread of Cold Viruses: Practical Strategies

Cold viruses are highly contagious and can spread easily from person to person. How can you minimize the risk of transmission? Implementing the following strategies can help prevent the spread of cold viruses:

• Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Using alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water aren’t available
• Avoiding touching your face, especially the nose, mouth, and eyes
• Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, preferably with a tissue or your elbow
• Staying home when sick to avoid exposing others
• Regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces
• Maintaining good overall health through proper nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep

How long are individuals contagious with a cold? People can spread cold viruses from 1-2 days before symptoms appear until their symptoms resolve, which is typically 7-10 days after onset. It’s crucial to practice good hygiene throughout this period to protect others from infection.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Cold Symptoms

While most colds resolve on their own without medical intervention, certain circumstances warrant professional medical attention. When should you consider consulting a healthcare provider for cold symptoms?

• Symptoms persist beyond 10-14 days
• Fever above 101.3°F (38.5°C) or fever lasting more than 3 days
• Severe sore throat or swollen tonsils
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Severe headache or facial pain
• Persistent, severe cough
• Symptoms that improve and then suddenly worsen

Are certain groups at higher risk for complications from colds? Yes, individuals with weakened immune systems, young children, older adults, and those with chronic respiratory conditions may be more susceptible to developing secondary infections or complications. These groups should monitor their symptoms closely and seek medical advice if there are concerns.

The Role of Nutrition in Supporting Immune Function During a Cold

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining a strong immune system, which is essential for fighting off cold viruses. What dietary strategies can help support immune function during a cold?

• Consume a variety of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins A, C, and E
• Include lean proteins to support antibody production
• Incorporate zinc-rich foods like nuts, seeds, and lean meats
• Stay hydrated with water, herbal teas, and clear broths
• Consider probiotic-rich foods to support gut health and immunity

Are there specific foods that can help alleviate cold symptoms? While no food can cure a cold, certain options may provide symptomatic relief:

• Chicken soup: May have anti-inflammatory properties and help clear nasal passages
• Ginger tea: Can soothe a sore throat and may have mild antiviral effects
• Garlic: Contains compounds that may support immune function
• Citrus fruits: High in vitamin C, which may slightly reduce the duration of symptoms

How important is hydration during a cold? Staying well-hydrated is crucial when fighting a cold. Adequate fluid intake helps thin mucus secretions, making them easier to expel, and prevents dehydration that can exacerbate symptoms. Aim for at least 8-10 cups of fluid daily, including water, herbal teas, and clear broths.

The Impact of Stress on Cold Susceptibility and Recovery

Stress can have a significant impact on the immune system, potentially increasing susceptibility to colds and influencing recovery time. How does stress affect the body’s ability to fight off cold viruses?

• Chronic stress can suppress immune function, making it easier for viruses to take hold
• Stress hormones like cortisol can interfere with the production and function of immune cells
• High stress levels may lead to poor sleep quality, further compromising immune defenses
• Stressed individuals may be more likely to engage in behaviors that increase cold risk, such as poor diet or inadequate self-care

What strategies can help manage stress and support immune function? Implementing stress-reduction techniques can be beneficial for overall health and cold prevention:

• Regular exercise, which can boost mood and immune function
• Meditation or mindfulness practices to reduce stress hormones
• Adequate sleep to support immune system recovery
• Social connections and support networks to buffer against stress
• Time management and prioritization to reduce daily stressors

Can managing stress actually help prevent colds? While stress management alone cannot guarantee prevention of colds, it can significantly support overall immune function. Studies have shown that individuals with lower stress levels and better coping mechanisms tend to experience fewer and less severe cold symptoms when exposed to viruses.

The Future of Cold Treatment: Emerging Research and Potential Breakthroughs

As our understanding of the common cold virus evolves, researchers continue to explore new avenues for prevention and treatment. What promising developments are on the horizon for cold management?

Antiviral Nasal Sprays

Scientists are investigating nasal sprays that can create a protective barrier in the nasal passages, potentially preventing cold viruses from taking hold. These sprays may contain compounds that either physically block virus particles or interfere with their ability to infect cells.

Targeted Immune Boosters

Research is underway to develop supplements or medications that can selectively enhance specific aspects of the immune response to cold viruses, potentially reducing symptom severity and duration without causing widespread inflammation.

Genetic Approaches

Advances in genetic research may lead to treatments that target the genetic vulnerabilities of cold viruses or enhance the body’s natural defense mechanisms against them.

Microbiome Modulation

Studies are exploring how the balance of microorganisms in the respiratory tract influences susceptibility to colds. Future treatments may involve probiotics or other interventions to promote a healthy respiratory microbiome.

Will we ever find a cure for the common cold? While a universal cure remains elusive due to the numerous viruses that can cause colds, ongoing research offers hope for more effective prevention and treatment strategies. As our understanding of viral infections and the immune system deepens, we may see significant advancements in cold management in the coming years.

In conclusion, while the common cold remains a ubiquitous and often frustrating ailment, our understanding of its mechanisms and potential treatments continues to grow. By combining evidence-based remedies, preventive measures, and emerging research, we can hope to minimize the impact of colds on our daily lives and overall health. As we await potential breakthroughs in cold treatment, maintaining good hygiene practices, supporting our immune systems through proper nutrition and stress management, and staying informed about the latest developments in cold research remain our best defenses against this pervasive viral infection.

Early signs and how long it will last

The typical incubation period for a cold is 2–3 days. A sore throat or runny nose are common early signs. Other symptoms, such as coughing and sneezing, may also develop.

Colds usually resolve within 7–10 days. While there is no cure for the common cold, rest and over-the-counter (OTC) medications can ease symptoms.

This article looks at the incubation period for a cold, how long colds last, and how long a person may remain contagious. We also look at how to manage symptoms while helping prevent transmission.

The incubation period for cold symptoms is usually 2–3 days after an individual is exposed to the virus.

Rhinoviruses cause most colds. However, upper respiratory symptoms, such as a cough, can also be signs of COVID-19.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it can take anywhere between 2 days to 2 weeks for people to show symptoms of COVID-19.

If COVID-19 could be a possibility, follow local public health guidelines for getting tested, and stay at home unless otherwise instructed.

The CDC state that the first symptoms of a cold are usually a sore throat and runny nose. Other symptoms include:

• sneezing
• coughing
• headaches
• body aches

The infographic below shows the similarities and differences between the symptoms of a cold versus influenza — also known as flu — and COVID-19:

Share on Pinterest

According to the CDC, it takes most people 7–10 days to recover from a cold. Some symptoms may linger for a few days longer in some individuals. However, most people do not need medical treatment for this condition.

Some can develop infections following a cold, such as sinusitis or an ear infection, which can extend the period of illness. However, doctors can diagnose and treat these secondary conditions with antibiotics.

In rare cases, a person who is vulnerable to complications from colds can develop conditions such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

There is no cure for the common cold. However, the following practices can help a person feel better and promote recovery:

• resting
• drinking enough fluids
• taking OTC cold medications

Speak with a pharmacist to ensure that cold medications and remedies are safe to take before trying them. Some are not suitable for children.

It is also important to let a pharmacist know of any health conditions a person has, especially diabetes or high blood pressure, as certain OTC medications can worsen these conditions.

There are numerous cold remedies that people believe can treat cold symptoms, although many do not have scientific research supporting them. However, there is some evidence that honey and zinc may help to a small degree.

A 2014 review notes that in one study, children over 12 months slept better and coughed slightly less when they took a dose of honey before bedtime. People can also add the substance to a hot drink to soothe the throat. However, do not give honey to children under the age of 12 months.

The same review also found some evidence that taking zinc may reduce the frequency of colds during the winter. However, they also found a high risk of bias, so this may not be a reliable result.

People cannot use antibiotics to treat colds because viruses cause colds, not bacteria. Additionally, there is no strong evidence that vitamin C, echinacea, or garlic will shorten the duration of a cold.

Once people contract a virus that causes the common cold, they can begin transmitting it to others, even if they are not experiencing symptoms yet. This means a person can pass on cold viruses up to 2–3 days before they show signs of a cold.

After symptoms develop, people remain contagious for as long as they have them. This can mean they are able to spread the cold virus for up to around 2 weeks.

The common cold spreads when people come in contact with the viruses that cause it. This may happen when a person touches surfaces that have the virus on them. If they then touch the nose, mouth, or eyes, the virus can get inside the body.

People can also acquire respiratory viruses by inhaling droplets that come from coughs and sneezes.

While most individuals experience mild symptoms during a cold, some are vulnerable to complications. For this reason, it is important to take steps to prevent transmission. The CDC advise:

• staying at home if sick, wherever possible
• keeping children at home if they are sick
• avoiding close contact with people who have colds
• using tissues or the inside of the elbow to catch coughs and sneezes
• disposing of tissues safely
• washing the hands frequently for 20 seconds with soap and water, particularly after coughing or sneezing
• avoiding touching the face
• disinfecting surfaces people often touch, such as doorknobs and light switches

Additional precautions are necessary if COVID-19 could be causing symptoms. If someone tests positive for the disease, the CDC recommend:

• self-isolating in a specific room of the house, as much as possible
• using a separate bathroom if possible
• avoiding sharing personal items, such as towels
• washing the hands immediately after:
  • coughing
  • sneezing
  • using the bathroom
  • before preparing or eating food
• staying 6 feet away from other household members
• wearing a mask that covers the nose and mouth, unless living alone
• cleaning and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces daily
• thoroughly cleaning items, such as plates and cutlery, after use
• telling close contacts about the rest result, as they may need testing

Most people do not need to seek medical attention when they have a cold. However, sometimes they can experience complications that require treatment.

Seek emergency help for the following symptoms:

• difficulty breathing
• rapid breathing
• in children, a high fever of 100.4 °F (38 °C) or more
• signs of dehydration, such as:
  • dry mouth
  • headache
  • in children, crying with no tears

A person should also seek help as soon as they can for any of the following symptoms:

• a fever that lasts for more than 4 days
• cold symptoms that do not get better after 10 days
• symptoms that get better and then get worse again

These symptoms may indicate a person has contracted a bacterial infection.

If someone could have COVID-19, follow local procedures for getting tested, and remain at home unless a healthcare professional instructs otherwise. Do not visit a healthcare facility without calling ahead first.

The incubation period for a cold is typically 2–3 days. The early symptoms include a sore throat, runny nose, or cough.

Most people recover from colds without needing to see a doctor for treatment. However, because the condition bears similarities with COVID-19, it is important to seek guidance on whether testing is necessary. Take precautions to avoid spreading viruses to others.

Early signs and how long it will last

The typical incubation period for a cold is 2–3 days. A sore throat or runny nose are common early signs. Other symptoms, such as coughing and sneezing, may also develop.

Colds usually resolve within 7–10 days. While there is no cure for the common cold, rest and over-the-counter (OTC) medications can ease symptoms.

This article looks at the incubation period for a cold, how long colds last, and how long a person may remain contagious. We also look at how to manage symptoms while helping prevent transmission.

The incubation period for cold symptoms is usually 2–3 days after an individual is exposed to the virus.

Rhinoviruses cause most colds. However, upper respiratory symptoms, such as a cough, can also be signs of COVID-19.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it can take anywhere between 2 days to 2 weeks for people to show symptoms of COVID-19.

If COVID-19 could be a possibility, follow local public health guidelines for getting tested, and stay at home unless otherwise instructed.

The CDC state that the first symptoms of a cold are usually a sore throat and runny nose. Other symptoms include:

• sneezing
• coughing
• headaches
• body aches

The infographic below shows the similarities and differences between the symptoms of a cold versus influenza — also known as flu — and COVID-19:

Share on Pinterest

According to the CDC, it takes most people 7–10 days to recover from a cold. Some symptoms may linger for a few days longer in some individuals. However, most people do not need medical treatment for this condition.

Some can develop infections following a cold, such as sinusitis or an ear infection, which can extend the period of illness. However, doctors can diagnose and treat these secondary conditions with antibiotics.

In rare cases, a person who is vulnerable to complications from colds can develop conditions such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

There is no cure for the common cold. However, the following practices can help a person feel better and promote recovery:

• resting
• drinking enough fluids
• taking OTC cold medications

Speak with a pharmacist to ensure that cold medications and remedies are safe to take before trying them. Some are not suitable for children.

It is also important to let a pharmacist know of any health conditions a person has, especially diabetes or high blood pressure, as certain OTC medications can worsen these conditions.

There are numerous cold remedies that people believe can treat cold symptoms, although many do not have scientific research supporting them. However, there is some evidence that honey and zinc may help to a small degree.

A 2014 review notes that in one study, children over 12 months slept better and coughed slightly less when they took a dose of honey before bedtime. People can also add the substance to a hot drink to soothe the throat. However, do not give honey to children under the age of 12 months.

The same review also found some evidence that taking zinc may reduce the frequency of colds during the winter. However, they also found a high risk of bias, so this may not be a reliable result.

People cannot use antibiotics to treat colds because viruses cause colds, not bacteria. Additionally, there is no strong evidence that vitamin C, echinacea, or garlic will shorten the duration of a cold.

Once people contract a virus that causes the common cold, they can begin transmitting it to others, even if they are not experiencing symptoms yet. This means a person can pass on cold viruses up to 2–3 days before they show signs of a cold.

After symptoms develop, people remain contagious for as long as they have them. This can mean they are able to spread the cold virus for up to around 2 weeks.

The common cold spreads when people come in contact with the viruses that cause it. This may happen when a person touches surfaces that have the virus on them. If they then touch the nose, mouth, or eyes, the virus can get inside the body.

People can also acquire respiratory viruses by inhaling droplets that come from coughs and sneezes.

While most individuals experience mild symptoms during a cold, some are vulnerable to complications. For this reason, it is important to take steps to prevent transmission. The CDC advise:

• staying at home if sick, wherever possible
• keeping children at home if they are sick
• avoiding close contact with people who have colds
• using tissues or the inside of the elbow to catch coughs and sneezes
• disposing of tissues safely
• washing the hands frequently for 20 seconds with soap and water, particularly after coughing or sneezing
• avoiding touching the face
• disinfecting surfaces people often touch, such as doorknobs and light switches

Additional precautions are necessary if COVID-19 could be causing symptoms. If someone tests positive for the disease, the CDC recommend:

• self-isolating in a specific room of the house, as much as possible
• using a separate bathroom if possible
• avoiding sharing personal items, such as towels
• washing the hands immediately after:
  • coughing
  • sneezing
  • using the bathroom
  • before preparing or eating food
• staying 6 feet away from other household members
• wearing a mask that covers the nose and mouth, unless living alone
• cleaning and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces daily
• thoroughly cleaning items, such as plates and cutlery, after use
• telling close contacts about the rest result, as they may need testing

Most people do not need to seek medical attention when they have a cold. However, sometimes they can experience complications that require treatment.

Seek emergency help for the following symptoms:

• difficulty breathing
• rapid breathing
• in children, a high fever of 100. 4 °F (38 °C) or more
• signs of dehydration, such as:
  • dry mouth
  • headache
  • in children, crying with no tears

A person should also seek help as soon as they can for any of the following symptoms:

• a fever that lasts for more than 4 days
• cold symptoms that do not get better after 10 days
• symptoms that get better and then get worse again

These symptoms may indicate a person has contracted a bacterial infection.

If someone could have COVID-19, follow local procedures for getting tested, and remain at home unless a healthcare professional instructs otherwise. Do not visit a healthcare facility without calling ahead first.

The incubation period for a cold is typically 2–3 days. The early symptoms include a sore throat, runny nose, or cough.

Most people recover from colds without needing to see a doctor for treatment. However, because the condition bears similarities with COVID-19, it is important to seek guidance on whether testing is necessary. Take precautions to avoid spreading viruses to others.

causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

• INVITRO
• Library
• Directory of Diseases
• Colds

Colds

Angina

Herpes

26312

The 25th of January

Colds: causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Definition

The term “cold” is not medical, but it is used so often that it requires more careful consideration. Usually, speaking of a cold, the patient associates his illness with hypothermia, especially since the peak of the incidence falls on the cold season. However, hypothermia is only a trigger, the cause of weakened immunity and the development of the disease. Against the background of physical stress, the addition of a bacterial or viral infection is observed.

Penetration of viruses and bacteria into the human body

Colds can be caused by both viruses (and in these cases they talk about SARS) and bacteria.

It is also possible the combined effect of these microorganisms, when, against the background of weakened immunity due to a viral infection, active reproduction of the bacterial flora begins.

Causes of colds

The basis of colds is always a decrease in the immune status, or rather, a lack of immune defense cells in the place of accumulation of pathogens. This is due to vasospasm under the influence of cold and circulatory disorders. The blood cells responsible for the capture and destruction of microorganisms do not enter the mucous membrane, where opportunistic microorganisms are always present and where viruses first penetrate. As a result, their active reproduction begins, causing human disease.

Often there is a combined infection, when a violation of the barrier function of the mucous membranes due to a viral disease leads to the multiplication of opportunistic bacteria that always live there in small quantities.

In addition, hypothermia, which the body perceives as stress, leads to the activation of the herpes virus. This virus is found in almost all adults, however, under the condition of good immunity, it “freezes” in nerve cells and does not manifest itself. When immunity is weakened under the influence of various stress factors (including cold), the virus becomes active and moves along the nerve pathways to the surface of the skin, causing rashes on the lips, nose, etc.

Classification of diseases

Colds can be divided into viral (acute rhinosinusitis – inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose and its paranasal sinuses, herpetic infection) and bacterial (acute bacterial rhinosinusitis, acute rhinopharyngitis – inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose and tonsils; tonsillitis, which also called pharyngitis). Acute viral respiratory diseases can be caused by influenza or parainfluenza viruses, as well as adeno-, rhino- and coronaviruses.

The development of viral infections is facilitated not only by hypothermia, but also by staying in close groups (schools, kindergartens, public transport), age (children, the elderly).

Acute respiratory bacterial infections are caused by opportunistic pneumotropic microorganisms that often colonize mucous membranes but do not develop in large numbers due to immune protection. Among them, streptococci, staphylococci, chlamydia and mycoplasmas prevail, the carriage (normal presence in a healthy body) of which varies from 5% (mycoplasmas) to 90% (staphylococci). Acute respiratory bacterial infections are usually accompanied by less pronounced symptoms of intoxication, and the temperature usually does not exceed 38oC.

In the case of a bacterial infection joining a viral one, the acute form of the disease with a predominance of catarrhal phenomena is replaced by a chronic one, which can last for a long time, leading to the development of complications.

Cold symptoms

Acute viral respiratory diseases caused by rhino-, corona- or adenoviruses, as well as influenza and parainfluenza viruses, are always manifested by a sudden and abrupt onset, worsening of the general condition (fever, symptoms of intoxication, heaviness in the head, aching joints, muscle pain, nasal congestion , perspiration and redness of the throat without the formation of plaque and films.

Cough with viral infections appears in 20% of cases and is acute, but benign. It disappears within 10-14 days, but sometimes it can last longer – up to 2-3 weeks, in these cases it is called post-infection.

Dry and unproductive cough in ARVI is caused either by inflammatory changes in the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract, or its irritation due to secretions flowing from the nasopharynx.

Colds caused by a bacterial infection tend to develop more slowly. It may not be accompanied by high fever and significant intoxication.

With a sore throat, not only reddening of the mucous membrane is noted, but also plaque, the color and consistency of which depend on the bacterial agent.

Discharge from the nose acquires a greenish tint and a viscous consistency. When coughing, viscous sputum appears. Symptoms of inflammation caused by a bacterial infection can occur in more than just the respiratory tract. Migrating through the circulatory system, bacteria can affect the heart, joints, kidneys and other organs with the development of appropriate symptoms.

Cold diagnosis

To determine which infectious agent caused a cold, it helps to interview the patient (the onset of the disease and symptoms), and examine the mucous membrane of the throat. The presence of plaque, pustules and films speak in favor of the bacterial nature of the common cold. If only a hyperemic and swollen throat is noted, most likely it is a viral disease. Laboratory research methods help to clarify the diagnosis and determine the specific causative agent of the common cold. A clinical blood test is required with the determination of ESR and leukocyte formula, and in the presence of plaque, a smear from the mucous membrane of the pharynx for further microscopy and seeding with the determination of sensitivity to antibiotics.

Gram Stain. Bacterioscopic examination of different smears.

Synonyms: Analysis of a Gram-stained smear.

Microscopic (bacterioscopic) examination of Gram-stained smear.

Brief description of the study Microscopic examination of a smear stained …

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If a streptococcal infection is suspected, an antigen test is performed.

Streptococcus group A (S.pyogenes), antigen test, oropharyngeal swab

Group A streptococcus is the leading etiological agent in the group of bacterial pharyngitis. Group A streptococcus infections can be accompanied by…

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With a persistent cough lasting more than 3-4 weeks, sputum culture, lung x-ray are prescribed, and if tuberculosis is suspected, Diaskintest (Mantoux test may give a false positive result).

Culture of sputum and tracheobronchial washings for microflora with determination of sensitivity to antimicrobial drugs and smear microscopy

Synonyms: Lower respiratory tract culture, routine. Bacteria identification, antibiotic susceptibility testing. Sputum culture routine. Bacteria identification, antibiotic susceptibility testing.

Brief description of the study “Sowing wet…

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Plain chest x-ray

X-ray examination of the structure of the lungs to diagnose various pathologies.

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Intradermal test with tuberculosis allergen (Diaskintest)

Diagnostic test with intradermal test for all age groups to diagnose tuberculosis infection.

*The procedure is carried out strictly according to…

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To confirm infection with the herpes virus, which can be indicated by rashes in the nose and lips (“fever”), it is necessary to determine the DNA of the virus by PCR and serological diagnostics (ELISA).

Human herpes virus type 1 and 2 (herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2), DNA determination (Human herpesvirus 1, 2, Herpes simplex virus 1, 2 (HSV-1, HSV-2), DNA) in blood serum

Synonyms: Analysis of blood serum for the herpes virus.

Human herpesvirus 1, 2, Herpes simplex virus 1, 2 (HSV-1, HSV-2), DNA, serum.

Brief description of the test “Human herpes virus 1 and …

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Anti-HSV-1 IgG (Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 IgG antibodies, IgG antibodies to herpes simplex virus type 1, HSV-1)

Synonyms: Blood test for IgG antibodies to herpes 1. Anti-HSV antibodies IgG; HSV Type 1-Specific IgG.
Summary of the Anti-HSV-1 IgG Study
Type-specific serological marker co…

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Anti-HSV-2 IgG (Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 IgG antibodies, IgG antibodies to herpes simplex virus type 2, HSV-2)

Synonyms: Blood test for IgG antibodies to herpes 2. Anti-HSV antibodies IgG; HSV Type 2-Specific IgG.
Summary of the Anti-HSV-2 IgG Study
Type-specific serological marker co…

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Which doctors to contact

The appearance of cold symptoms requires a visit to a general practitioner or pediatrician for timely differential diagnosis of a bacterial or viral infection. With a protracted course of the disease with the development of a purulent process in the sinuses of the nose, it may be necessary to consult an otorhinolaryngologist, and with a persistent intractable cough, a pulmonologist.

Cold treatment

Cold treatment is prescribed after diagnostic measures. This is of fundamental importance, since it makes no sense to use antibiotics in a viral infection, since they can cause antibiotic resistance in the body and prevent effective treatment of bacterial infections in the future.

If a diagnosis of SARS is made, antiviral and symptomatic therapy is carried out, aimed at reducing high temperature, reducing intoxication, reducing pain and swelling of the oral and nasal mucosa.

With acute cough accompanying SARS, it is necessary to ensure sufficient fluid intake and air humidification. When sputum appears, drugs with a thinning and expectorant effect are used – mucolytics.

In the case of acute respiratory bacterial infections, anti-inflammatory therapy is also prescribed. Against its background, irrigation procedures are carried out – washing the nasal cavity and gargling with solutions based on sea salt, chamomile, furacilin. Along with this, as a rule, antibiotics are required.

The choice of an antibacterial drug is carried out only by a doctor. This choice is due to the sensitivity of microorganisms to the antibiotic, and the duration of treatment – indications for the use of a particular drug.

It is not recommended to choose an antibiotic without a doctor’s prescription. Bacteria can show resistance to an antimicrobial, and its use will be not only ineffective, but also harmful.

Complications

The seeming routine of colds does not exclude the possibility of complications in the absence of proper treatment, non-compliance with regimen measures and proper nutrition. In severe viral infections (for example, influenza), hemorrhagic pulmonary edema and hyperthermic syndrome are among the most dangerous complications. However, much more often complications arise due to the secondary attachment of bacterial infections, which can cause bronchitis, pneumonia, sinusitis, otitis media and other diseases of the upper and lower respiratory tract.

In the absence of adequate antibiotic therapy, there is a risk of infection spreading to the internal organs, as well as the development of an inadequate response of the immune system, which is fraught with damage to the heart and kidneys.

Cold prevention

Strengthening the immune system is at the heart of the prevention of colds. To a large extent, hygiene procedures help to avoid the disease – washing hands and washing the nose, especially during SARS epidemics.

Sources:

1. Federal clinical guidelines for the provision of medical care to children with acute respiratory viral infection (acute nasopharyngitis): Union of Pediatricians of Russia. – Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 2015.
2. Clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of acute respiratory diseases, the treatment of pneumonia in children: The Union of Pediatricians of Russia. – Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 2014. \
3. Kupchenko A.N., Ponezheva Zh.B. Modern principles of diagnosis and treatment of SARS. Archive of internal medicine. No. 1 (27), 2016. S. 6-12.

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.
For a correct assessment of the results of your analyzes in dynamics, it is preferable to do studies in the same laboratory, since different laboratories may use different research methods and units of measurement to perform the same analyzes.

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Colds: main symptoms, causes and proper treatment

Runny nose, sore throat or ears – unfortunately, when they occur, many do not consider it necessary to see a doctor, and it is diseases of the ear, throat and nose that are among the most common among children and adults.

What we usually call the common cold are viral diseases. They are caused by more than 200 different respiratory viruses, which are transmitted mainly by airborne droplets. The source of infection is a sick person.

Check yourself

The main symptoms of a cold are: sore throat, fever, runny nose, tearing and pain in the eyes (at the beginning of the illness), headache, cough, fatigue and lethargy.

A cold develops gradually: at first it starts to tickle in the throat, but the person is still not sure whether he gets sick or not. Then a runny nose appears, overcomes the “sneeze”, a cough occurs after a couple of days. There may not be an increase in temperature as such, or it rises slightly – up to 37.5-38 degrees – and not for long: for a day or two. There is no need to knock her down.

After a cold on the legs, otitis media – inflammation of the ear, sinusitis – inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, or bronchitis can occur. But in general, complications after colds in people without chronic diseases are quite rare.

Good to know!

The “season of colds” in Siberia lasts an average of 7 months – from September-October to March-April. During this time, an adult has an average of 2-3 colds, so we know how to treat colds, everyone has such experience.

In a closed room, SARS viruses spread around a sick person for 7 meters. From 2 to 9 hours they live in the air of the room where the patient was. The highest concentration of viruses in the air around the patient is in the first two days of illness.

How to be treated correctly?

Until recently, when there were no antiviral drugs, colds were treated with folk remedies that did not fight viruses, but only alleviated the symptoms of the disease.

But medicine does not stand still and many medicines are designed to fight the common cold: painkillers and antipyretics, vasoconstrictor drops and sprays, cough mixtures and decoctions…

Good for colds:

• — gargles for sore throats with tinctures and decoctions of sage, chamomile, calendula, salt solution with soda;
• – inhalation when coughing with steam of potatoes boiled in uniform, steam of decoctions of chamomile, mint, calendula and other medicinal herbs;
• – heating the nose with a runny nose with hot, hard-boiled eggs. Bags with heated salt or sand;
• – washing the nose with a runny nose with a weak saline solution, special sprays.

It is advisable to drink up to 3-4 liters of fluid per day during the illness. The virus is afraid of alkali, so choose alkaline mineral water.

Load up on fruit drinks and juices: lingonberry, cranberry, orange — they contain large amounts of vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system. Warm tea with raspberries, honey and lemon has always been considered the first remedy for a cold.

And yet, from the first days of illness, it is better to consult a doctor and take a sick leave – this way you will avoid complications and do not infect others. If this is not done in time, then a “harmless” runny nose can lead to a lot of negative consequences
Ears, throat, nose and larynx directly affect the environment, and it is their condition that determines how many viruses, allergens, bacteria and toxic particles can enter the body, causing disturbances in the functioning of organs.