Nearly 200 viruses can cause a cold, and they can live for hours on objects, surfaces, and people. When you touch something contaminated with a cold virus, and then touch your eyes or nose, you transmit the virus to your body. There is no cure for the common cold. It usually goes away in 5 to 7 days.
Antibiotics cannot kill viruses and should only be used to treat secondary bacterial infections, such as sinus or ear infections. Taking large doses of vitamin C has not been proven to prevent colds but may reduce its severity and duration. Excessive amounts of vitamin C (more than 1000mg a day) can cause diarrhea, kidney stones, gout, and other health related problems. Some over-the-counter cold products can help ease a few of the discomforts but they cannot cure the illness. If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, hyperthyroid, or asthma condition, check with your doctor before purchasing any over-the-counter cold products.
The most important thing you can do for your cold is to take good care of yourself. The following are some tips:
㰰Drink plenty of fluids.
㰰Get plenty of rest.
㰰Eat a balanced diet.
㰰Gargle with salt water for a sore throat.
㰰(1/2 teaspoon of salt in 1-cup warm water).
㰰Always blow, cough, or sneeze into a facial tissue.
㰰Wash your hands frequently.
㰰Use a steam vaporizer or cool-mist humidifier.
㰰Do not smoke.
㰰Don’t share personal items.
See your doctor if:
㰰Your cold lasts longer than 2 weeks.
㰰Your temperature is over 101
ꇣ For you have chills.
㰰You cough up yellow, green, or gray mucus.
㰰You have chest pain or shortness of breath.
㰰You have an earache
㰰You have a severe headache with a stiff neck.
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