Is There a Cure to the Common Cold?

Unfortunately, the answer to that question is no. The common cold may be common, but that does not make it any more pleasant to suffer. Mild colds may make you feel a little under the weather for a few days, whereas a nasty cold can really take its toll; particularly on the young, elderly or infirm.

The common cold is caused by a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, and it is common because there are over 200 viruses that can cause it, although rhinoviruses are the main culprits. It is no surprise therefore, that an adult will suffer with a cold on average three times a year, whereas, a child can be infected between six and twelve times annually.

Cold symptoms usually last between seven and ten days, although it is not uncommon to feel unwell for up to three weeks. Symptoms include a runny nose, sinus pain, sneezing, coughing, sore throat, fever and headaches. General aches and pains and conjunctivitis can also occur during the common cold.

Because the common cold is caused by a virus, antibiotics are of no use in treating it, meaning that there is no real cold cure. Most cold treatments revolve around looking after yourself and treating the symptoms.

Treatment Options:

1. Rest and fluids

It is best to treat the common cold like any other viral infection and allow your body the time to recover. Getting plenty of rest and replenishing the fluids lost due to fever and sneezing, will help your body use its energy to fight the infection.

2. Steam inhalation

If a blocked nose is one of your main cold symptoms, a good cure is inhaling steam; either with or without menthol crystals dissolved it in.

3. Using a vapour rub on your chest and nose can also help a stuffy nose.

4. Gargling

Gargling with salt water or specialized antiseptic mouthwash can help reduce the inflammation associated with a sore throat.

5. Painkillers

There are a multitude of cold remedies available over the counter. Most will contain either paracetamol or ibuprofen, which are anti-inflammatory drugs and will help with the pain and pain-inducing inflammation.

Many a cold cure will also contain added ingredients aimed at boosting your immune system, providing energy or getting a good night's sleep. As with all medications, read the instructions carefully as some cold remedies do not mix well with other medications or are not suitable for young children. Specialised cold cures for children are available.