An infectious disease of which there are over 120 types of viruses as causative agents. The transmitted by direct or indirect contact with fluid discharges from an infected person. It is characterized by a sore throat, running nose, chills, mild fever, and muscular aches. The usually lasts from 3 to 5 days, but no autoinfection or relapse is common.
Infection of the respiratory tract, caused by any one of more than 200 different viruses. Sometimes called a head cold, the infection causes inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the nose and throat. Nasal congestion, sore throat, and sometimes other symptoms, usually confined to the nose and throat, are produced by the inflammation. The larynx (organ in the throat that contains vocal cords) may also become involved, causing laryngitis.
A widespread infectious virus disease causing inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, and bronchial tubes. The disease is transmitted by coughing and sneezing. Symptoms commence 1-2 days after infection and include a sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, headache, cough, and general malaise. The disease is mild and lasts only about a week but it can prove serious to young babies and to patients with a preexisting respiratory complaint.
An infection by any one of around 200 viruses, with about half the common-cold infections being caused by rhinoviruses. Certain coronaviruses, echoviruses and coxsackie viruses are also culprits. The common cold — traditionally also called a chill — is one of several viral infections that cause respiratory symptoms and systemic illness. Others include pneumonia and gastroenteritis. Colds are commoner in winter, perhaps because people are more likely to be indoors in close contact with others.
An acute infection of any or all parts of the respiratory tract from the nasal mucosa to the nasal sinuses, throat, larynx, trachea, and bronchi. Common colds occur in most people, usually at least once a year. They are more common in smokers and in children than in healthy adults. The common cold causes more loss of work and school time than any other ailment.
A mild illness triggered by upper respiratory viruses, typically presenting symptoms such as nasal congestion, coughing, sneezing, throat irritation, and a slight increase in body temperature.
A widespread viral infection known for causing inflammation of the mucous membranes in the nose and throat.
There are over 200 highly contagious viruses that are recognized to be responsible for causing the common cold. These microorganisms are easily transmitted through tiny droplets in the air, released when infected individuals cough or sneeze. Moreover, cold viruses can be transferred to the nose and throat via direct contact with an infected person or by touching objects contaminated with the virus.
The symptoms of a common cold usually encompass nasal congestion or a runny nose, a sore throat, headaches, and a cough. These symptoms typically progress gradually over a period of 24 to 48 hours, differing from the rapid worsening observed in influenza symptoms that can occur within a few hours.
The majority of colds typically resolve on their own within a week. Individuals affected by the common cold can take simple measures to manage their symptoms. For instance, mild analgesics or cold remedies can provide relief from aches and pains, while cough remedies can help soothe a cough. However, there are instances where the infection spreads, leading to conditions such as laryngitis, tracheitis, acute bronchitis, sinusitis, or otitis media. In such cases, a bacterial infection may occur in addition to the viral infection, necessitating the use of antibiotic medications for treatment. It is important to note that antibiotics are ineffective against viruses and do not cure colds.