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Common cold
Common cold
The common cold is a mild, viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract, mainly the nose and throat. It is mostly caused by rhinoviruses, although other respiratory viruses can also cause the infection. The condition usually resolves on its own, but it may cause discomfort and temporarily disrupt daily activities until the immune system eliminates the virus. Manipal Hospitals offers medical care that focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting recovery.
Treatments Available at
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Old Airport Road - Bengaluru
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Whitefield - Bengaluru
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Request a CallbackSymptoms of Common cold
Common cold symptoms usually appear within one to three days after exposure to the virus. Typical symptoms include a runny or blocked nose, sore throat, sneezing, mild cough, watery eyes, fatigue, and sometimes low-grade fever.
How We Diagnose Common cold
Common cold diagnosis usually depends on clinical evaluation and symptoms. Initially, doctors review the patient’s medical history and perform a physical examination of the nose, throat, and ears. Because diagnosis is based on symptoms and clinical examination, laboratory tests are usually not necessary. If symptoms suggest other infections such as influenza or bacterial sinusitis, additional tests may be recommended.
Treatment Options
Common cold treatment is symptomatic and focuses on relieving symptoms while the immune system clears the viral infection. Management may include rest, adequate hydration, pain relievers, saline nasal sprays, and over-the-counter medications for congestion or cough relief.
What to Expect
At Manipal Hospitals, patients with common cold symptoms receive careful evaluation. This evaluation confirms the diagnosis and rules out the possibility of other respiratory infections. Since the common cold is caused by viruses, antibiotics are usually ineffective and are prescribed only if a secondary bacterial infection develops.
Treatment is generally symptomatic and supportive, promoting the individual's comfort and recovery. Adequate rest, fluid intake, and nutrition are encouraged. Over-the-counter medications may be used to reduce fever and relieve throat discomfort, nasal congestion, or cough. Doctors may recommend a saline nasal spray or steam inhalation for nasal congestion.
Because it is self-limiting, most people recover from the common cold without any complications within seven to ten days. Children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems may have symptoms that last for a slightly longer period. While recovering, patients are advised to practice proper hygiene, including frequent hand washing and covering their mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing. These measures can help prevent the further spread of infection to others.
Consult our Experts
FAQs
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How long does the common cold usually last?
For healthy individuals, the symptoms of the common cold typically last about seven to ten days. Some symptoms, such as cough or nasal congestion, may last slightly longer as the body gradually gets rid of the viral infection.
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Can antibiotics be used to treat the common cold?
Antibiotics are not effective for treating the common cold because the infection is viral rather than bacterial. Doctors may prescribe antibiotics only if a bacterial complication, such as sinusitis or an ear infection, develops.
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What mainly causes the common cold?
Common cold causes include several respiratory viruses, the most common being the rhinoviruses. These viruses spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Transmission occurs when a person touches the nose, mouth, or eyes after touching contaminated surfaces.
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How long does a common cold stay contagious?
A person with the common cold is usually most contagious during the first two to three days after the appearance of the symptoms. However, the virus can still spread while symptoms such as coughing or sneezing last.
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When should someone see a doctor for common cold symptoms?
It is necessary to seek medical attention if symptoms become severe or last longer than ten days. Medical evaluation is critical if accompanied by a high fever, persistent chest pain, breathing difficulty, or signs of a serious respiratory infection.
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