Topic: Self-Treatment For The Common Cold

The common cold is a self-limiting viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. It accounts for about one-half of all illnesses in adults and about three-quarters of all illnesses in young infants. Patients frequently self-medicate with OTC drugs, but the common cold cannot be prevented or cured. Antibiotics, often prescribed for patients with colds, are ineffective against viral infections.
Etiology of the Common Cold
Rhinovirus is the most common cause of the common cold. The most efficient mode of transmission is self-inoculation of the nasal mucosa or conjunctiva following contact with viral-laden secretions on animate or inanimate objects. Smoking, poor nutrition, increased population density, a sedentary lifestyle, and chronic psychological stress increase your chance of getting cold.
Signs and Symptoms of the Common Cold
The cold symptoms follow a predictable path, and usually resolve within 7 days. Sore throat is the first symptom followed by nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, sneezing, and coughs. Patients may have chills, headache, malaise, myalgia, or low-grade fever. The cold is self-limiting. The sore throat resolves quickly. Nasal symptoms dominate by day 2 or 3 and cough appears by day 4 or 5.
Self-treatment
1. Wash your hands before touching other people or the objects they have touched to prevent spreading a cold to others
2. Getting adequate rest may help you to recover more quickly
3. Drink more fluids may loosen mucus and promote sinus drainage
4. Sucking on hard candy, gargling with salt water, or drinking fruit juices may soothe a sore throat
5. Ask your pharmacist to help you select OTC products to relieve your most bothersome symptoms
When you need to seek medical attention:
1. Sore throat persists more than several days, is severe, or is associated with persistent fever, headache, or nausea or vomiting
2. Cough does not improve within 7 to 10 days
3. Symptoms worsen while taking nonprescription medications
4. Signs and symptoms of bacterial infections develop, e.g., thick nasal or respiratory secretions that are not clear; temperature higher than 101.5F; shortness of breath; chest congestion; wheezing, rash, or significant ear pain.

Adapted from Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs, APhA.