The Common Cold

The common cold is probably the most frequently occurring illness in humans worldwide. A cold is an inflammation of the respiratory system (airways and lungs) caused by a viral infection. These viruses are usually spread by one person coughing and sneezing and another unlucky person breathing in the germs. Now you know why it’s so important to cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing! The average adult has tow to three infections per year and young children can have up to seven cold annually.

Cold, hard facts

· Damp, cold, or bad weather doesn’t increase the chances of getting a cold.

· Doctors believe a cold lasts seven days without treatment and one week with it!

· The only way to get rid of a cold is for the body’s immune system to make antibodies t destroy the virus. This usually takes three-to four days.

· Antibiotics that fight bacteria are useless against viruses that cause colds.

· Cough mixtures, antihistamines and other medications provide only temporary relief of the symptoms.

· Taking vitamin C probably doesn’t prevent getting colds but it may reduce their severity and duration.

Whether or not you get a cold after you’re exposed to a virus depends on how ready your immune system is to fight infection. Factors that can impair normal immune function include old age, smoking, stress, poor nutrition, fatigue and lack of sleep.

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