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The Common Cold

Colds, also known as Upper Respiratory Infections, are infections of the nose and throat that can be caused by several different viruses.
These infections are relatively harmless, but can make you feel miserable when you have it.
A cold may last for up to 10 – 14 days.

Unfortunately, nothing will “cure” a cold. It has to run its course. Because it is a virus, antibiotics will not work for a cold.
Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and cigarette smoke; these can cause dehydration and aggravate your symptoms.
Rest as much as you can. This will allow your body to use its energy to fight the virus instead of keeping up with your usual schedule.
Gargle with warm salt water several times a day. This will help decrease the irritation and swelling in your throat.

Over the counter medicines may be used to treat symptoms:
Nasal decongestants, such as Afrin or Neo-Synephrine, work to decrease the swelling in your nose. These medicines work very well, but you need to remember that you cannot use these for more than 3 days in a row. They can cause a rebound swelling if used longer.
Decongestants such as Sudafed may help relieve that congestion and pressure. Remember not to take these medicines in addition to Nyquil since they both contain decongestants.
Medicines such as Acetominophen (Tylenol) and Ibuprofen (Advil) can be taken to relieve fevers and pains.

Please come to the Student Health Center or see your Primary Care Provider if you have:

Avoid close contact with people have a cold, especially during the first few days when they are most likely to spread the infection.
Wash your hands frequently; especially after touching someone who has a cold or touching anything that person may have touched or any time you blow your nose.
Have a separate hand towel in the bathroom for the sick person and the healthy people
Do not share any drinks, etc. with other people
Keep your fingers away from your nose and eyes to avoid infecting yourself with cold virus particles that you may have picked up
Do not inflict your cold on other people. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then throw the tissue away and wash your hands.

These claims have not been proven, but it is important to your overall health to be sure to have the daily minimum dosage regularly.

Echinacea and other herbs and zinc lozenges have had a lot of publicity. However, there is no scientific data that proves their effectiveness.

Hot liquids can soothe a scratchy throat, but chicken soup has no curative properties

Fluids are definitely more important when you have a cold than foods are. You should be sure to drink plenty of water, juices, etc. Drink warm beverages to soothe your throat. You do not want to starve yourself; eat enough to satisfy your appetite.

Last revised: June 15, 2006