COLDS

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

Symptom Definition

Runny or stuffy nose, nasal congestion
The nasal discharge may be clear, cloudy, yellow, or green
Other symptoms of a cold include:
- Sneezing
- Mild fever and muscle aches, feeling tired and sleepy, headache
- Scratchy, mildly sore throat
- Postnasal drip, throat clearing, cough
- Sometimes there is hoarseness, tearing eyes, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck

General Information

Colds are very common. The average adult experiences 3-4 colds each year.
Viruses cause colds, and no medicine or "shot" will cure an uncomplicated cold.
Colds are usually not serious, but they can sometimes lead to more serious illnesses such as: sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, and otitis media. Elderly persons and individuals with a weakened immune system (due to chemotherapy, HIV positive, splenectomy, or the regular use of steroid medications) are at higher risk of developing these infectious complications.

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

COUGH is the main symptom
SINUS PAIN AND CONGESTION are the main symptoms
SORE THROAT is the main symptom

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

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