Common Cold

On average, American adults have two to three colds per year. A common cold can often be draining and sometimes debilitating when left untreated. At Primary Care of Venice, medical professionals provide quick and effective treatment for common colds to help you get rid of your symptoms and feel better. They work with you to help lower the chances of spreading infection to those around you. Call the Venice, Florida, office to schedule an appointment if you've been exhibiting cold symptoms. Or request one online today.

What is meant by a common cold?

A common cold is a viral infection in your nose and throat similar to the flu but less serious. Generally speaking, a common cold is harmless, even thoughsymptoms might make it appear as though it isn’t. 

While symptoms generally fade within ten days, you should consider seeing your doctor to expedite this process and prevent spreading the infection to others.

What causes a common cold?

Many factors go into causing a common cold, though rhinoviruses are the most likely culprit. 

A cold virus enters the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth through droplets in the air. These droplets can travel from infected person to infected person naturally and stealthily. It’s possible to catch a cold due to close contact with an infected person.

Various factors go into determining the likelihood of developing a cold, such as your immune system health, age, and exposure to inclement weather. Common colds can affect people at any age, though children under the age of 6 are more likely to develop the viral infection.

What are the symptoms of a cold?

In most cases, symptoms of a common cold begin to make themselves known within three days of exposure to the virus. Symptoms  include:

• Sore throat
• Congestion
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Sneezing
• Cough
• Body aches
• Headaches
• Low-grade fever

As a common cold progresses, you might notice the discharge from your nose changes color or becomes thicker. You should see your doctor at Primary Care of Venice if you’ve experienced any combination of the above symptoms, especially if you start wheezing or if your fever lasts longer than five days.

Is the common cold dangerous?

A common cold is generally harmless, as it goes away quickly. Nonetheless, the viral infection can lead to more serious issues, such as:

• Acute sinusitis
• Acute ear infections
• Asthma

It would be best to speak to your doctor at Primary Care of Venice about how to avoid these issues.

What is the treatment for a common cold?

Your doctor can prescribe medication to help relieve symptoms and discomfort. 

They might recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to help with headaches and sore throats, decongestant nasal sprays that you can use for up to five days, and cough syrup to start your throat’s healing process.

Get rid of your common cold as soon as possible. Call the office to schedule an appointment or request one online now.