How does an upper respiratory infection progress. What are the typical symptoms of a cold or flu. Why are antibiotics ineffective for most URIs. How can you alleviate symptoms and support your immune system.

Understanding Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs)

Upper respiratory infections (URIs) encompass a range of common illnesses, including the common cold, sinus infections, chest colds (bronchitis), influenza, and COVID-19. These infections are predominantly viral in nature, with over 90% caused by various viruses rather than bacteria. Understanding the progression and management of URIs is crucial for effectively dealing with these frequent health challenges.

Common Types of URIs

• Common cold
• Sinus infections
• Bronchitis
• Influenza
• COVID-19

The Typical Progression of a Common Cold

Dr. Helen (Eleni) Xenos, a physician at One Medical in Chicago, outlines the usual course of a common cold:

1. Day 1: Fatigue, headache, sore or scratchy throat
2. Day 2: Worsening sore throat, low fever, mild nasal congestion
3. Day 3: Increased congestion, uncomfortable sinus and ear pressure
4. Day 4: Mucus may turn yellow or green, sore throat improves, coughing begins
5. Days 5-7: Energy levels and congestion start to improve
6. 1 week+: Cough typically subsides after a week but may persist for 3-6 weeks

While most URIs resolve within a week, certain symptoms, particularly coughing, can linger for several weeks. It’s important to note that if symptoms are significantly worse than those described above, such as severe coughing leading to vomiting, coughing up blood, difficulty breathing, or a fever exceeding 102°F, it may indicate a more serious condition like pertussis (whooping cough) or bacterial pneumonia.

Distinguishing Between Different URIs

While URIs share many common symptoms, certain characteristics can help differentiate between them:

Sinus Infections

If a cold persists for more than two weeks, it may develop into a sinus infection. This condition is characterized by pain around the eyes and nose, as well as sinus headaches.

Bronchitis (Chest Colds)

Bronchitis typically presents with chest congestion and a persistent hacking cough that can last for several weeks.

Influenza

The flu shares many symptoms with other URIs but is distinguished by a prominent fever, chills, headache, and body aches that usually persist for several days.

COVID-19

COVID-19 can mimic other colds but may include additional symptoms like loss of taste or smell. Given its contagious nature and potential severity, it’s crucial to get tested and self-isolate if you experience cold-like symptoms to prevent the spread of the virus.

Effective Symptom Management and Immune Support

When dealing with a URI, the primary focus should be on alleviating symptoms and bolstering your immune system. While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, several strategies can help you feel better faster:

Over-the-Counter Remedies

The cold and flu aisle at your local drugstore offers a variety of options. Choose remedies that target your specific symptoms. For instance, if you’re struggling with sinus pressure, a decongestant like pseudoephedrine or a nasal sinus rinse might provide relief.

Natural Remedies

Some individuals find relief in natural remedies. For example, inhaling steam from a hot shower or sink can help alleviate chest congestion during a bronchitis episode.

Rest and Stress Reduction

Your immune system functions optimally when you’re well-rested and stress-free. Prioritize sleep and relaxation to give your body the best chance at fighting off the infection.

Nutritional Support

Certain supplements may help reduce the severity and duration of colds:

• Vitamin C: Taking 1-2 grams daily during cold season may lessen symptoms and shorten the duration of colds.
• Zinc lozenges: When taken within 24 hours of symptom onset, zinc can support your immune system. Take one lozenge every two hours on a full stomach.

The Ineffectiveness of Antibiotics for URIs

Many people mistakenly believe that antibiotics can help treat URIs. However, it’s crucial to understand why antibiotics are not only ineffective but potentially harmful in most cases:

Viral Nature of URIs

The vast majority of URIs are caused by viruses. Antibiotics are designed to combat bacterial infections and have no effect on viruses. Therefore, taking antibiotics for a viral URI won’t improve your condition or speed up recovery.

Potential Risks of Antibiotic Misuse

Using antibiotics unnecessarily can lead to several problems:

• Antibiotic resistance: Overuse of antibiotics contributes to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, making future infections harder to treat.
• Side effects: Antibiotics can cause various side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, and allergic reactions.
• Disruption of gut flora: Antibiotics can upset the balance of beneficial bacteria in your digestive system, potentially leading to other health issues.

Exceptions to the Rule

While most URIs don’t require antibiotics, there are exceptions. Bacterial infections, such as strep throat or certain cases of sinusitis, may necessitate antibiotic treatment. However, these should only be prescribed after proper diagnosis by a healthcare professional.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most URIs can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant medical attention:

• Fever over 102°F (38.9°C) that persists for more than three days
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Severe headache or neck stiffness
• Persistent vomiting
• Symptoms that worsen after initial improvement
• Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without improvement

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.

Prevention Strategies for URIs

While it’s impossible to completely avoid URIs, several preventive measures can reduce your risk of infection:

Hand Hygiene

Frequent and thorough handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of viruses. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the bathroom, and after being in public spaces.

Avoiding Close Contact

When possible, maintain distance from individuals who are sick. If you’re ill, stay home to avoid spreading the infection to others.

Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can boost your immune system and make you less susceptible to infections. This includes:

• Getting adequate sleep (7-9 hours per night for most adults)
• Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques or meditation

Vaccination

While not available for all URIs, vaccines can protect against certain respiratory infections, such as influenza and COVID-19. Staying up-to-date with recommended vaccinations can significantly reduce your risk of these specific infections.

The Role of Telemedicine in Managing URIs

With the advent of telemedicine services, managing URIs has become more convenient for many patients. Virtual consultations can provide several benefits:

Accessibility

Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare providers from the comfort of their homes, reducing the risk of spreading infections in waiting rooms and public spaces.

Timely Advice

Virtual consultations can provide quick guidance on symptom management and help determine if in-person evaluation is necessary.

Prescription Services

In cases where medication is needed, many telemedicine platforms can facilitate prescription services, allowing patients to receive necessary treatments without leaving home.

Follow-up Care

Telemedicine makes it easier to schedule follow-up appointments, ensuring that patients receive continued care and monitoring throughout their recovery process.

While telemedicine offers many advantages, it’s important to remember that certain symptoms or conditions may still require in-person evaluation. Always follow the advice of your healthcare provider regarding the most appropriate form of care for your specific situation.

Long-term Impact of Recurring URIs

While most URIs are short-lived and resolve without complications, frequent or prolonged infections can have long-term effects on an individual’s health and quality of life:

Chronic Sinusitis

Recurring sinus infections can lead to chronic sinusitis, a condition characterized by persistent inflammation of the sinus cavities. This can result in ongoing symptoms such as facial pain, nasal congestion, and reduced sense of smell.

Weakened Immune System

Frequent infections may indicate or lead to a weakened immune system, making an individual more susceptible to future illnesses. This can create a cycle of recurrent infections that becomes increasingly difficult to break.

Impact on Respiratory Health

Repeated respiratory infections, especially those affecting the lower respiratory tract, can potentially lead to long-term lung damage or exacerbate existing respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Quality of Life

Frequent URIs can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, affecting work productivity, social interactions, and overall well-being. Chronic symptoms like persistent cough or nasal congestion can be particularly disruptive to daily activities and sleep patterns.

Economic Impact

The cumulative effect of multiple URIs can result in substantial economic costs, both in terms of healthcare expenses and lost productivity due to sick days.

Given these potential long-term impacts, it’s crucial to take URIs seriously and implement effective prevention and management strategies. If you find yourself experiencing frequent or prolonged URIs, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider to identify any underlying issues and develop a comprehensive health plan.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in URI Management

The field of respiratory infection management is continually evolving, with ongoing research aimed at improving prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies. Here are some areas of current interest and potential future developments:

Advanced Diagnostic Tools

Researchers are working on developing rapid, accurate diagnostic tests that can quickly distinguish between viral and bacterial infections. This could lead to more targeted treatments and reduce unnecessary antibiotic use.

Novel Antiviral Therapies

While current antiviral medications are limited in their effectiveness against most URIs, ongoing research is exploring new antiviral compounds that could potentially treat a broader range of viral respiratory infections.

Immunomodulatory Approaches

Scientists are investigating ways to enhance the body’s natural immune response to respiratory infections. This could involve developing new supplements or medications that boost specific aspects of the immune system.

Microbiome Research

The role of the respiratory and gut microbiome in susceptibility to URIs is an area of growing interest. Future treatments might involve probiotic therapies aimed at maintaining a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria.

Personalized Medicine

Advances in genetic research may lead to more personalized approaches to URI prevention and treatment, tailoring interventions based on an individual’s genetic profile and risk factors.

Improved Vaccination Strategies

Ongoing research aims to develop more effective and broadly protective vaccines against respiratory viruses, including universal flu vaccines and improved COVID-19 boosters.

As research in these areas progresses, we can anticipate more effective, targeted approaches to managing URIs in the future. However, it’s important to remember that basic preventive measures and current best practices in symptom management remain crucial in the meantime.

Understanding the nature of URIs, their typical progression, and effective management strategies can significantly improve your ability to cope with these common infections. By focusing on symptom relief, supporting your immune system, and knowing when to seek medical attention, you can navigate through URIs more comfortably and recover more quickly. Remember, while antibiotics are not effective against viral infections, there are many other ways to alleviate symptoms and support your body’s natural healing processes. Stay informed, practice good hygiene, and prioritize your overall health to minimize the impact of URIs on your life.

Our Definitive Guide to Cold and Flu

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Dec 23, 2021

By One Medical

Updated December 23, 2021.

So you’ve come down with a nasty virus that’s been making the rounds. The good news? You probably don’t need to go into the doctor’s office. The bad news? You still feel awful.

If you think you have an upper respiratory infection (URI) — which includes the common cold, most sinus infections, chest colds (bronchitis), the flu (caused by the influenza virus), and COVID-19 — there’s a lot you can do at home to feel better faster. You’ll have infections like these many times throughout your life, so learning what helps the most (and the least) is worth your time.

What to Expect with an Upper Respiratory Infection

More than 90 percent of upper respiratory infections are caused by viruses. These infections create different symptoms at each stage. Most colds, flus and COVID-19 resolve in about a week, although some symptoms (like coughing) can take weeks to go away completely.

Helen (Eleni) Xenos, a One Medical doctor in Chicago, describes the typical progression of the common cold:

• Day 1: Fatigue, headache, sore or scratchy throat.
• Day 2: Sore throat worsens, low fever, mild nasal congestion.
• Day 3: Congestion worsens, sinus and ear pressure become very uncomfortable. It may be difficult to sleep.
• Day 4: Mucus may turn yellow or green (this is normal). Sore throat improves, but coughing begins.
• Days 5-7: Energy and congestion improve.
• 1 week+: Cough usually tapers off after a week, but can take up to 3-6 weeks to fully resolve.

If your symptoms are much worse than these, such as coughing so hard you throw up, coughing up bloody mucus, difficulty breathing, or if you have a fever over 102°F, you might have something more serious going on, like pertussis (whooping cough) or bacterial pneumonia.

If a cold drags on for more than 2 weeks, it can turn into a sinus infection that causes pain around the eyes, nose and/or sinus headaches. Chest colds (bronchitis) cause chest congestion and a hacking cough that drag on for a few weeks.

The flu comes with similar symptoms but features a prominent fever, chills, headache, and body aches that usually last several days.

COVID-19 can feel very similar to other colds and can sometimes have additional symptoms like loss of taste or smell which can help distinguish this virus. It’s important for folks to get tested and stay home with cold symptoms to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, keep everyone safe, and help end the pandemic. For more on COVID-19, see here.

What Helps You Feel Better

Treating the symptoms and supporting your immune system is the best course of action to feel better faster. Everyone’s experience of a cold is slightly different from the next person’s, and there are many options in the cold and flu aisle at the drugstore. How do you know which symptom remedies are right for you?

The key is to find what works best for you personally, for your symptoms, whether it’s over-the-counter cold and flu remedies or soothing herbal tea. If, for example, you experience bad sinus pressure when you have an upper respiratory infection, a decongestant like pseudoephedrine or a nasal sinus rinse might be good to have on hand. If it’s coughing that usually makes your life miserable during a chest cold, you could try inhaling hot steam from the sink or shower a few times a day to help break things up.

Your immune system’s job is to eradicate viral and bacterial infections from your body. It’s very effective as long as you provide it with the proper support. The best way to do that is to rest. Being stressed out or not getting enough sleep releases hormones that suppress your immune system.

In addition, taking one to two grams a day of vitamin C during cold season may lessen the severity and duration of your colds, although it won’t prevent you from catching them in the first place. Taking zinc lozenges during a cold also supports your immune system, but you have to start within 24 hours of symptom onset for them to work. Take one zinc lozenge or melt-away every two hours on a full stomach to avoid nausea.

Why Antibiotics Won’t Help — and Might Hurt

Almost all URIs are caused by viruses, and at present we don’t have medications that work against them. (One notable exception: There are antiviral medications for the flu. If you start them in the first 24 to 48 hours of symptoms, it might reduce the duration of your illness by about a day. )

As for the small percentage of upper respiratory infections caused by bacteria, most go away on their own — and often just as quickly — even if you don’t take antibiotics. So if there’s a chance antibiotics can help, what’s the harm?

There are many reasons to be conscientious about taking antibiotics, including breeding resistant superbugs or making your health care cost more. However, there’s another reason that’s of immediate concern: diarrhea. Antibiotics can wreak havoc in your intestines and upset the normal balance of bacteria — including the bacteria that help you digest food, which can lead to abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and alternating diarrhea and constipation. Taking multiple courses of antibiotics puts you at risk of potentially long-lasting effects on your gut.

Like everything health-related, the decision about whether to take antibiotics for a bacterial infection comes down to weighing the risks and benefits. Your provider will be happy to discuss the decision with you in detail.

Keeping Your Infection to Yourself

Colds, flus, and COVID-19 are contagious from the time you get them (even before you have symptoms) up to ten days after your symptoms start. They’re usually not contagious after ten days, even if you’re still coughing or congested.

The best way to avoid passing on a URI (or catching one in the first place) is to wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth with your arm when you cough or sneeze and wear a mask that fully covers your mouth and nose. It’s also best to take at least a couple of days off work or school while you’re most contagious.

When to Call Your Provider

Occasionally, viral infections can set the stage for more complicated bacterial infections. If you experience any of the following, call your healthcare provider:

• High fever (over 102°F)
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Coughing up bloody mucus
• Coughing so hard that you throw up
• Feeling worse after 7-10 days of symptoms, especially if you have worsening headache, congestion, or sinus pain
• If you don’t start to feel better after 10 days of symptoms

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Remedies for Cold and Flu Symptoms

Cough and Chest Congestion

• Antihistamine/decongestant combo (e.g., brompheniramine/pseudoephedrine)
• Cough suppressant: Dextromethorphan (Delsym)
• Expectorant (mucus thinner): Guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin)
• Gentle hot tea (chamomile, licorice root, peppermint, thyme) with or without honey or lemon juice; Traditional Medicinals “Throat Coat” or “Breathe Easy” teas.
• Honey (1 tablespoon of raw honey 1 to 3 times daily). Note: honey is not safe for infants under 12 months.
• Steam inhalation: Boil 1 inch of water in a pot, remove from the stove, add 5 drops of eucalyptus oil if desired, and inhale slowly for a few minutes twice daily with a towel over your head.

Sore Throat

• Pain relievers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol). It’s OK to use the maximum dose for 1 or 2 days while your symptoms are at their worst. Follow directions on the packaging.
• Cooling or numbing medicines: Chloraseptic spray, lozenges, gargle echinacea tincture in water.
• Saltwater gargles throughout the day: 1 tablespoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
• Warm tea with honey, Traditional Medicinals “throat coat” or “breathe easy” teas, “sore throat tea“.
• Chicken soup or other clear broth.

Nasal Congestion and Sinus Pressure

• Oral decongestants: Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) is the most effective choice., Anticipate requesting and showing ID for the medication at the pharmacist counter. Avoid decongestants if you have poorly controlled high blood pressure.
• Nasal spray decongestant: Oxymetazoline (Afrin). Don’t use this for more than 3 days, or your congestion will come back even worse.
• Pain relievers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol). It’s okay to use the maximum dose for 1 or 2 days while your symptoms are at their worst. Follow directions on the packaging.
• Nasal steroid spray: Flonase, Nasonex, Nasacort
• Nasal irrigation twice daily with warm salt water (neti pot, NeilMed Sinus Rinse, Nasaline)
• Steam inhalation: Boil 1 inch of water in a pot, remove from the stove, add 5 drops of eucalyptus oil if desired, and inhale slowly for a few minutes twice daily with a towel over your head.
• Moist heat compresses over your sinuses for several minutes a few times a day.
• Herbs: Goldenseal, Bi Yan Pian, Sinupret

Runny Nose

• Oral decongestants: Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) is the most effective choice. Anticipate requesting and showing ID for the medication at the pharmacist counter.. If you have high blood pressure, avoid pseudoephedrine or take care to monitor your blood pressure while you take it.
• Nasal spray decongestant: Oxymetazoline (Afrin) can be used for a short time. Don’t use this for more than 3 days, or your congestion will come back even worse.
• Antihistamines: Allegra, Zyrtec, Claritin, Benadryl (all available in generic formulas) are all effective. Benadryl (diphenhydramine) will make you sleepy; the others won’t. Antihistamines tend to work better for runny noses from allergies, but they can help a bit, and they come in some of the combination cold/flu products.
• Saline nasal spray
• Steam inhalation: Boil 1 inch of water in a pot, remove from the stove, add 5 drops of eucalyptus oil if desired, and inhale slowly for a few minutes twice daily with a towel over your head.

Fever

• Fever reducers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
• Drink lots of water.
• Take a warm or cool shower.
• Warm tea (chamomile, peppermint)

Headache and Body Aches

• Pain relievers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil). It’s okay to use the maximum dose for 1 or 2 days while your symptoms are at their worst, as long as there are no contraindications. Follow directions on the packaging.
• Moist heat compresses or cold packs.
• Rub on Tiger Balm.
• Take a nap.
• Take a warm bath with Epsom salts.

Have more questions about these symptoms or upper respiratory infections, colds, flus, or COVID-19? Join One Medical today to talk to a provider.

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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.

How to distinguish the coronavirus from colds and flu

There are several ways to determine which specific disease a person has encountered. Among them, a comparison of symptoms, the timing of the course of the disease, the presence of complications and special laboratory tests.

How to distinguish it from a cold

The common cold is an acute respiratory disease that can be caused by both viruses and bacteria. At the initial stage of the development of diseases, there are minimal differences in symptoms from COVID-19. In patients with coronavirus, as well as in those infected with acute respiratory infections, the following are observed:

• weakness;
• increased body temperature;
• sore throat;
• cough.

Scientists who studied coronavirus were also able to identify some of the characteristic symptoms of the initial stage of the disease, which do not appear when infected with acute respiratory infections. These are:

• loss of smell and taste;
• Eruption on the lower part of the legs, similar to measles.

However, such phenomena are not observed in all infected people, so their absence does not allow one to unambiguously exclude them from the list of possible diagnoses of COVID-19. But if they are present, the likelihood that painful symptoms are caused by coronavirus increases.

As the disease progresses, it becomes easier to distinguish the coronavirus from the common cold. With a cold, mainly symptoms of a catarrhal nature are observed: muscle aches, runny nose with secretion in large quantities, perspiration and sore throat.

In patients with coronavirus, the following are recorded:

1. Severe dry cough. It occurs in the vast majority of cases, since COVID-19 primarily affects the respiratory tract. The patient does not cough at all, or a slight sputum discharge is recorded. With a cold, such a phenomenon as a cough is rare.
2. Shortness of breath and a feeling of tightness in the chest. Occurs due to damage to the lungs. With a cold, they are not affected, so the patient’s breathing remains clear and free.
3. High body temperature. A cold gives an increase of up to 38 degrees, and a coronavirus – up to 40 or more.
4. Nasal congestion. It is difficult for an infected person to breathe, but no liquid secretion is secreted. The appearance of a runny nose indicates a cold, especially in conjunction with sneezing, watery eyes and copious discharge of fluid from the nose.
5. Diarrhea. It is considered a rare symptom, mainly diagnosed in children infected with coronavirus.
6. Conjunctivitis.

If these symptoms appear, immediate hospitalization is required, as complications from coronavirus develop quickly. Self-medication can lead to aggravation of the patient’s condition, and in some cases to death.

How to tell it apart from the flu

Seasonal flu is also similar in symptoms to the coronavirus. However, there are still some differences. First, the flu is characterized by a sharp deterioration in the patient’s condition, and with COVID-19, the symptoms appear gradually, their severity increases.

In the vast majority of those infected, influenza causes a rise in body temperature to 38-39 degrees. With coronavirus, the indicator depends on the form of the course of the disease.

1. With a mild degree of damage to the body, a slight deviation from the norm is recorded – about +37 … +37.5 degrees.
2. In a severe course of the disease, the temperature can rise to 40 and above.

In case of ARVI, the temperature can be lowered with the help of tablets, suspensions and other medicines containing paracetamol or ibuprofen. If a patient has a coronavirus, the usual antipyretic drugs often bring little or no relief. The temperature either does not go down completely, or decreases for a short time, and then again reaches critical values.

Both influenza and COVID-19 are characterized by coughing. However, its type is different. COVID-19 is always accompanied by a dry cough, while the infected person feels shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. Influenza is characterized equally as a wet cough with copious sputum, and dry.

Another significant difference between coronavirus and seasonal influenza is the possibility of the disease occurring in the absence of symptoms. The infected person does not experience discomfort and does not even notice that he is sick. But it remains very dangerous for others, as it can infect a large number of people.

Differences in diseases by duration

Symptoms of acute respiratory viral infections appear already 1-4 days after contact with the pathogen. The usual duration of the incubation period for colds is 2-3 days, after which patients begin to feel the first symptoms. Coronavirus needs a longer time to manifest – about 5-14 days. During the incubation period, the unpleasant sensations of the infected do not bother. If he can approximately determine when contact with the carrier occurred, then by the length of the incubation period it will be possible to establish the type of disease.

Coronavirus can also be distinguished by the duration of the course of the disease. With a cold, relief comes as early as 3-7 days. Influenza resolves without complications within 10-14 days. When infected with coronavirus, characteristic symptoms can be observed within 2-4 weeks. The duration of the disease directly depends on the form of the course, the timeliness and correctness of the prescribed treatment, as well as on the general condition of the body and the immune system of the infected person.

Another difference between a standard ARVI and a coronavirus is the likelihood and timing of complications, primarily pneumonia. Coronavirus progresses quickly, so lung damage in severe form can be observed already after 9-15 days after infection. With ARVI, pneumonia also appears, however, with seasonal flu, this complication develops somewhat later. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection. In addition, the degree of lung damage in ARVI is much less, and COVID-19 affects almost completely alveolar-type tissues, which complicates treatment and increases the recovery time.

A reliable way to distinguish coronavirus from other types of acute respiratory viral infections

It is often impossible even for experienced doctors to make a definite diagnosis simply by comparing the symptoms of influenza and coronavirus. In order to accurately determine the type of disease in patients, it is necessary to conduct special laboratory tests.

You can distinguish coronavirus from influenza by doing the following types of tests:

1. PCR study. Produced under the direction of a doctor. The patient will only need a swab of the throat and nose, in some cases it is allowed to extract another biological fluid – blood, sputum, flushing of water from the bronchi. The resulting material is studied in the laboratory, experts are looking for virus cells in it. The approximate turnaround time for results is 1-3 days.
2. Immunoglobulin test. Allows you to determine the presence of antibodies in the blood. Used to clarify the current stage of the course of COVID-19in patients with a confirmed diagnosis, as well as to identify people who have had the disease asymptomatically.

It is extremely difficult to make a diagnosis on your own. Even the presence or absence of characteristic symptoms is not a guarantee of infection. Tests are also capable of giving a false positive or false negative result, but their accuracy is in any case quite high. If you have symptoms of SARS or a cold, you should definitely consult a doctor. Only after receiving the results of the study, it is possible to speak with confidence about the presence of pathogens COVID-19in the body and proceed to adequate treatment.

Runny nose: symptoms, stages and course of the disease | What to do if a runny nose is diagnosed

Author, editor and medical expert – Klimovich Elina Valerievna.

Editor and medical expert – Harutyunyan Mariam Harutyunovna.

Date last updated: 06/27/2023

Views: 384,110.

Average reading time: 8 minutes.

Contents:

Causes of a runny nose
Mechanism of development of acute rhinitis
Symptoms of infectious rhinitis
Treatment of infectious rhinitis
Other types of rhinitis

Another runny nose or nasal congestion? Do you think it’s an infection? Do not rush to conclusions and buy drops from the common cold. It can be caused not only by a cold, but also by other reasons. So, the treatment in each case will be different.

Causes of runny nose

Runny nose or rhinitis is an inflammatory disease of the nasal mucosa ¹ . And its main culprit is indeed an infection ¹ , or rather, pathogens that enter the body with inhaled air.

Most often, a runny nose appears as one of the manifestations of acute respiratory diseases ¹ . Among the most common pathogens:

• viruses: rhinoviruses, which cause up to half of all acute respiratory viral diseases (ARVI) in adults ¹ , influenza and parainfluenza viruses, adenoviruses, enteroviruses, respiratory syncytial viruses and others;
• bacteria: streptococci, Haemophilus influenzae, etc.;
• fungi that more often cause rhinitis symptoms in patients with severely reduced immunity ¹ .

The nasal cavity is the initial section of the respiratory tract, which performs extremely important functions. Here, the air is warmed and humidified, and its partial disinfection takes place. Protection against viruses, bacteria and other microorganisms is provided by the mucociliary barrier, consisting of ciliated epithelial cells and nasal mucus, which contains various immune factors. Damage to the mucociliary barrier facilitates the penetration of infection into the nasal mucosa and contributes to the development of rhinitis ¹ .

The following can act as a damaging factor:

• hypothermia, first of all, of the feet and back: scientists have proven that the effect of cold on these parts of the body leads to a reflex constriction of the vessels of the nasal mucosa and a decrease in local defense mechanisms ¹ ;
• dry air: when it is inhaled, the mucous membrane gradually dries up, the amount of nasal mucus decreases, it partially loses its protective properties;
• inhalation of polluted air containing dust particles, allergens, chemical impurities;
• injuries: for example, from blows, picking a finger in the nose, as a result of operations ^1.2 .

Why shouldn’t you self-medicate in the hope of quickly getting rid of a runny nose? The fact is that the disease can be associated with non-infectious causes.

Rhinitis can be:

• allergic: seasonal, associated with a reaction to plant pollen, or year-round, such as allergies to household dust or pets ^{1. 2} ;
• professional, related to working conditions and production factors ^1.3 ;
• drug induced ^1.3 ;
• hormonal, due to fluctuations in the amount of hormones in the body, for example, changes in the level of sex hormones during puberty, before menstruation, during pregnancy, during menopause ^2.3 ;
• food associated with a reflex reaction of the vessels of the nasal mucosa to food, for example, to hot and spicy dishes, to dyes and preservatives contained in products, as well as to alcohol ³ ;
• psychogenic, arising as a reaction to stress and emotions ³ ;
• age-related (senile), caused by the aging processes of the organism ³ etc.

rhinitis goes the same way . As a result of exposure to any factor, an inflammatory reaction occurs in the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity: small blood vessels expand, edema appears, due to which air movement through the nasal passages is partially or completely blocked. Looking ahead a little, let’s say that local vasoconstrictor drugs, widely used in the treatment of rhinitis in adults and children, facilitate nasal breathing just by constricting blood vessels and reducing tissue edema ¹ .

Inflammation of the mucous membrane accompanied by increased secretion of nasal mucus. The discharge from the nasal passages becomes profuse and liquid. In the future, they may acquire a different character, depending on the type of rhinitis ¹ .

Since the nasal cavity is closely connected with the paranasal sinuses, the same processes often occur in them. This is manifested by heaviness in the central part of the face, headache ¹ .

Violation of nasal breathing forces breathing through the mouth. The mucous membrane of the pharynx dries up, there is a sensation of sore throat, inflammation may develop – pharyngitis.

Violation of nasal breathing leads to a deterioration in the supply of oxygen to the brain, leads to problems with sleep and chronic fatigue. As a result – daytime sleepiness, reduced concentration, performance and mental stress tolerance ¹ .

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Symptoms of infectious rhinitis

Let’s analyze how the clinical picture of the most common type of rhinitis develops – infectious, concomitant with ARVI.

1st stage – “dry”, lasts from several hours to 1-2 days and is characterized by the appearance of dryness, burning and tickling in the nose, which cause bouts of sneezing. At the same time, general symptoms of the disease occur: malaise, weakness, “weakness”, headache, and possibly an increase in body temperature. The severity of these manifestations depends on the type of infectious agent ¹ .

2nd stage – “serous discharge” (lasts 1-3 days). During this period, as inflammatory changes increase, abundant mucous discharge from the nasal passages appears. Nasal congestion occurs. Decreased sensitivity to odors. Conjunctivitis may develop, manifested by redness of the whites of the eyes and tearing ¹ .

Since nasal mucus contains ammonia and sodium chloride, they irritate the skin in the area of ​​the upper lip, it often develops areas of redness ¹ .

If the inflammation involves the nasopharynx and the Eustachian tube area, there may be a feeling of stuffiness in the ears ¹ .

3rd stage – “mucopurulent discharge” develops when a bacterial infection is added. Discharge from the nasal passages becomes yellow or yellow-green.

Gradually they become thicker, their number decreases and disappears. Recovery is coming ¹ .

Acute coryza usually clears up in 8-12 days. With a normal state of immunity and a mild course, discharge from the nose, even without treatment, can disappear in just 2-3 days. If it is not possible to get rid of a runny nose and nasal congestion for more than 2-3 weeks, then the disease has acquired a protracted course ¹ , and here you can’t do without a doctor. Perhaps the immune system is weakened by some disease and cannot resist the disease, there are congenital or acquired anomalies of the intranasal structures or foci of chronic infection in the body ¹ . Only a specialist can deal with this. He will conduct the necessary studies and prescribe the treatment of the common cold, taking into account the identified pathology.

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Treatment of infectious rhinitis

In order to reduce the number of pathogens on the surface of the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity, doctors recommend washing the nose with saline solutions for rhinitis ¹ .

What else can be used to treat a runny nose in adults and children? The drug therapy is based on local vasoconstrictor drugs (decongestants), which reduce swelling of the nasal tissues, restore nasal breathing and thereby significantly improve well-being ¹ .

If you have a runny nose, you can use TIZIN ^® Classic nasal spray based on xylometazoline ⁶ . The drug is available in the form of a 0.05% solution of xylometazoline intended for children from 2 to 6 years old, and a 0.1% solution for adults ⁶ . The action begins to develop after 2 minutes and can last up to 12 hours ⁶ .

The use of decongestants sometimes leads to “drying” of the nasal mucosa ¹ . Therefore, when choosing a drug, priority is often given to a drug that, along with a vasoconstrictor, contains moisturizing components ¹ , for example, TIZIN ^® Panthenol nasal spray. This drug, like TIZIN ^® Classic, is available in two dosages: for children from 2 to 6 years old and for children over 6 years old and adults ⁷ . In addition to xylometazoline, it contains Dexpanthenol, which promotes healing of the nasal mucosa ⁷ .

The drug does not contain preservatives, it is equipped with a special SILVER TURBO spiral, which prevents the penetration of microorganisms into the vial. Due to this, the drug solution remains sterile throughout the entire period of use.

Important! The use of decongestants for more than 10 days can lead to the development of “rebound syndrome” and drug-induced rhinitis, therefore, in case of infectious rhinitis, it is not recommended to use vasoconstrictors for a long time ¹ . With vasomotor and allergic rhinitis, side effects appear even earlier, approximately on the 5th-7th day, so decongestants are canceled after 4 days ¹ .

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Other Types of Rhinitis

Consider the symptoms and treatment of some other types of rhinitis in adults.

Allergic

Allergic rhinitis is a non-infectious form of rhinitis that develops as a result of an abnormal immune response to certain types of allergens ^3.4 .

The development of the disease begins with the appearance on the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity of a local area of ​​”hypersensitivity” to the allergen, that is, capable of triggering the production of antibodies (IgE) upon contact with it ^{3. 4} . At this stage, it is extremely difficult to detect the disease, since the allergic texts used to diagnose allergies do not yet work. They become positive when almost the entire nasal mucosa becomes “receptive” to the allergen ³ .

A feature of allergic rhinitis is a frequent combination of symptoms of a runny nose with manifestations of conjunctivitis: networks of dilated blood vessels in the white membrane of the eyes, lacrimation, itching and burning in the eyes. Symptoms may appear suddenly on contact with the allergen and progress as the disease worsens ³ .

How to treat allergic rhinitis?

As with any form of allergy, it is important to eliminate or at least reduce exposure to the allergen. If it is possible to eliminate the allergen, for example, to exclude contact with a pet, it is possible to get rid of a runny nose quickly. However, this is far from always possible, especially since most often the allergy is combined, that is, it occurs on several allergens at once. In such cases, the doctor prescribes drug therapy: antiallergic drugs, glucocorticoid hormones, decongestants and nasal antihistamines such as Tizin ^® Allergy.

Tizin ^{® Spray} Allergy contains levocabastin, a second-generation antihistamine that acts on histamine H1 receptors and thereby helps to reduce the manifestations of allergies ⁸ . The drug can be used not only for adults, but also for children over 6 years old ⁸ . It relieves the symptoms of the disease after 5 minutes and is able to maintain its effect for 12 hours ⁸ .

If there are no contraindications for allergic rhinitis, allergen-specific immunotherapy is carried out – “vaccination” of the allergen ³ .

Vasomotor

Vasomotor rhinitis is diagnosed in 50% of patients who complain of symptoms of the common cold ³ . More often it is found in women suffering from dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system.

As “provocateurs” of the common cold are:

• pungent odors and chemical impurities in the air;
• changes in temperature and humidity of inhaled air;
• fluctuations in atmospheric pressure;
• stress and emotions;
• physical activity;
• sexual activity;
• alcohol, spicy food;
• hormonal changes ^2.3 .

How exactly vasomotor rhinitis develops is still unknown. It is believed that its cause is a malfunction of the autonomic nervous system (activation of its parasympathetic part), leading to the expansion of blood vessels and increased secretion of nasal mucus ^2.3 .

It is not possible to quickly cure vasomotor rhinitis, the disease proceeds in a chronic form. Exercise can reduce its manifestations ² . It is believed that physical training contributes to the narrowing of the blood vessels of the nasal mucosa. Physicians usually prescribe antihistamines, intranasal glucocorticoids, decongestants, and other medications as drug therapy ^{2. 3} .

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Rhinitis of pregnancy

Runny nose in pregnant women occurs due to changes in hormonal levels. Its first manifestations usually appear in the second trimester of pregnancy (14-27 weeks) and disappear a couple of weeks after childbirth. The cause of the common cold is an increase in estrogen levels, causing shifts in the work of the autonomic nervous system and dilation of the blood vessels of the nasal cavity ³ .

How is rhinitis of pregnancy treated? Since the use of topical vasoconstrictors (topical decongestants) during pregnancy is prohibited, therapy is limited to rinsing the nasal cavity with saline solutions, eliminating irritants and dosed physical activity ³ .

Atrophic rhinitis

Atrophic rhinitis can develop as an independent disease or as a result of other types of rhinitis. One of the leading causes is long-term exposure to various damaging environmental factors, such as dust, high and low temperatures, chemicals, including prolonged use of excessive doses of topical decongestants.