Cold Articles
Browse eMedTV's wide range of articles related to cold including topics such as transmission of the common cold, is the common cold contagious?, and allergies vs cold symptoms. Use the search box at the top-right corner of the page to find information about other health topics.
The common cold is an illness caused by a virus that often results in sneezing, runny nose, and coughing. This eMedTV article discusses the common cold, including information about symptoms, transmission, treatment, and prevention of the illness.
Common cold symptoms include a sore throat, runny nose, and cough. This eMedTV Web page lists common cold symptoms and discusses complications that may develop from the common cold, such as ear infections and sinusitis.
Viruses are the causes of the common cold -- there are more than 200 viruses that can cause colds. This eMedTV resource discusses these causes of the common cold, such as rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, and parainfluenza.
Cause and Cure of the Common Cold
Researchers have studied the cause and cure of the common cold for years. The cause is viral in nature; the cure remains unknown. This eMedTV article discusses the cause and cure of the common cold and provides links to more information.
Common cold prevention methods include frequent handwashing, avoiding people with colds, and using disinfectants. This eMedTV article discusses common cold prevention strategies, such as keeping your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Cold and flu symptoms are similar, but mistaking the flu for a cold could lead to serious complications. This eMedTV article explains the differences between cold and flu symptoms, and discusses treatment and prevention options for both illnesses.
Despite marketing claims to the contrary, there is no cure for the common cold. As explained in this eMedTV article, claims have been made for zinc, vitamin C, and echinacea -- but none of these is the cure for the common cold.
Common cold treatment options include resting in bed, drinking plenty of fluids, and taking cold medications. This eMedTV article offers an in-depth look at common cold treatment methods and includes information about treating children with colds.
Is the Common Cold Contagious?
Is the common cold contagious? Yes, it is. However, as this eMedTV article explains, the common cold is not nearly as contagious as other viruses, such as chickenpox or the flu.
Types of common cold medicine include nasal decongestants, antitussives, and antihistamines. This eMedTV segment takes an in-depth look at these and other types of common cold medicine, and explains how they help treat cold symptoms.
The common cold contagious period may begin two to three days before symptoms appear and lasts about two weeks. As explained in this eMedTV article, the peak of the common cold contagious period usually occurs between day 2 and day 4 of the cold.
Common cold myths claim that everything from vitamin C to the weather is a cause or cure for the cold. This eMedTV article debunks some of the more common cold myths, such as the idea that exposure to cold weather can cause a cold.
Many people believe that there is a link between vitamin C and the common cold -- namely, that the vitamin can prevent colds. This eMedTV article explores the data on vitamin C and the common cold.
There is no common cold vaccine -- and it is unlikely one will ever be found. This eMedTV article explains why developing a common cold vaccine is such a challenge.
Cold and flu season in the United States tends to begin around the end of August and lasts until March or April. This eMedTV article discusses some of the possible reasons why people tend to get sick during cold and flu season.
Transmission of the Common Cold
As explained in this eMedTV segment, transmission of the common cold occurs in one of two ways. One way transmission of the common cold may occur involves touching a surface containing cold germs and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
When weighing allergies vs cold symptoms, keep in mind that cold symptoms often last a week or less; allergy symptoms last much longer. This eMedTV article provides easy-to-understand charts to help you compare allergies vs cold symptoms.
If you've been experiencing cold symptoms and anesthesia will be used in an upcoming surgery, you need to tell your doctor. This eMedTV article explains why cold symptoms and anesthesia don't always mix.
Common cold research is being conducted to learn more about the viruses that cause colds. This section of the eMedTV library discusses some of the ongoing common cold research, such as studies examining the impact aspirin may have on colds.