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Upper Respiratory Infections or Colds
The "common cold" is the most common infectious upper respiratory illness (URI). This is a viral infection that is transmitted from the inhalation of microscopic droplets (from a person sneezing next to you) containing the virus. Transmission can also occur by handling items recently used by someone with a cold (virus gets on your hands and eventually finds its way into your respiratory tract via self-inoculation). For this reason, a handshake could conceivably transmit the virus. Frequent hand washing is recommended for those with colds or those exposed to infected individuals. Viral URI's are often seasonal. The common cold is generally a 3-7 day illness that results in congestion, runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, sore throat and dry cough. There may be an associated low-grade fever. Treatment is largely symptomatic. Decongestants, antihistamines, and cough suppressants can help with the symptoms. Good nutrition, vitamins, plenty of fluids, and rest will give your immune system the necessary boost to fight this nonserious infection.
REMEMBER
Persistent symptoms, high fevers, chills, productive cough, shortness of breath, or chest pains on coughing could indicate a more serious infection warranting physician evaluation IMMEDIATELY. Patients who are elderly, diabetic, suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or receiving chemotherapy for cancer, should follow-up closely with their physician.
Hope this article will provide you information about upper respiratory infections or colds.
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