infection
Common cold
The common cold, or simply a cold, is a viral disease of the upper tract that primarily affects the respiratory of the nose, throat, sinuses, and larynx. Signs and symptoms may appear in as little as two days after exposure to the virus. These may include coughing, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, headache, , and fever. People usually recover in seven to ten days, but some symptoms may last up to three weeks. Occasionally, those with other health problems may develop . When general symptoms are and the disease is severe, the term "flu-like" or "influenza-like illness" can be used instead.
Underlined words are explained — tap any of them.
Symptoms — what it feels like
- ·Cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever, muscle aches, , headache, anorexia
Causes — why it happens
- ·Viral (usually rhinovirus)
How it's found
- ·Based on symptoms
Prevention
- ·Hand washing, cough etiquette, vitamin C
Treatment
- · therapy, zinc
Complications
- ·Usually none, but occasionally otitis media, sinusitis, and can occur
More in Lungs
AsthmaCOPDPneumoniaTuberculosisLung cancerPulmonary fibrosisSleep apneaCystic fibrosisBronchitisInfluenzaPulmonary embolismSilicosis
See all of Lungs →Plain-language summary adapted from Wikipedia. Not medical advice.