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"The cold", also known as a head or chest cold is most often caused by one of over 400 viruses, rhinovirus and adenovirus being the most common. Symptoms include low grade fever, cough, sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy/sore throat, and general fatigue and malaise. Transmission is through direct contact with air droplets containing a virus or objects (like door handles) with virus particles on them which you touch and invariable transmit to your mucus membranes (mouth, nose) by touching them.
Since the common cold is caused by a virus there is no "quick fix" such as an antibiotic which will cure the infection. Symptoms occur due to the immune response to the virus, more so than the virus' actual destruction of cells and tissues. The average course lasts about 7-10 days and can extend up to 21 days.
The #1 way to prevent getting a cold is to WASH YOUR HANDS. Washing hands after using the restroom or when hands are soiled, after contact with a sick person, and when coming home will decrease your chance of receiving and transmitting viruses. If soap and water are unavailable, hand sanitizer is your next best option.
There are now several over the counter medications which can aid the process of recovery. Discussed below are the most common ingredients found in several cough and cold medications in stores today:
DEXTROMETHORPHAN
An antitussive (cough suppressant), dextromethorphan is the major ingredient in the majority of cough medications helping to lessen the severity of a cough. Drowsiness is a common side effect so caution should be used when taking this medication and handling automobiles or machinery.
Dur to its ability to create a hallucinogen/"high" effect when taken in large doses, many medications with dextromethorphan (especially cough syrups) now must be bought directly from the pharmacist and with ID.
GUAIFENESIN
An expectorant, guaifenesin thins and loosens mucus in respiratory passages likes the nose and throat.This allows you to cough out the mucus in an attempt to breath easier and also suppress cough.
The most common side effect is nausea and vomiting, especially when taken without food.
ACETAMINOPHEN
The active ingredient in Tylenol (also known as paracetamol), acetaminophen is primarily a fever reducer and pain reliever.
Generally deemed a safe drug, speak with a physician prior to taking if you have liver disease or have had an allergic reaction to acetaminophen in the past.
In the setting of possible overdose, head to your nearest emergency department as soon as possible.
PHENYLEPHRINE
Found in both cold medicines and nasal sprays phenylephrine is a nasal decongestant used to help make breathing easier.
Side effects include increase in blood pressure, headache, rebound worsening of symptoms, and feelings of excitation and restlessness.
DIPHENHYDRAMINE
A potent anti histamine, dipenhydramine is used to combat symptoms such as itchy, red eyes, sneezing, itchy/sore throat and a runny nose either from the common cold or allergies.
Diphenhydramine's most common side effect is drowsiness, and is commonly used off label for insomina (difficulty sleeping).
Since the majority of cough and cold medications contain these 5 ingredients they may all potentially help decrease symptoms. Viruses usually have to run their course before you will notice any improvement so do not be discouraged if you feel the medicine is "not working". Rest, drinking lots of fluids, and avoiding other sick individuals will help you get better in no time.
Cough and cold medication should not be given to children under the age of 4 unless directed by a physician. If you are pregnant speak with your Ob/GYN or primary care physician prior to taking any medication.
If you or someone you know may have overdosed on cough syrup, or any cold or flu mediation, call the Poison Help Line immediately at 1-800-222-1222 or go to your nearest emergency room.
If cold symptoms persist after 21 days with worsening cough, fever, and difficulty breathing you should be seen by a health care professional as colds can sometimes progress to pneumonia or bacterial sinusitis.
Stay tuned for the next post where we discuss natural remedies for the common cold!
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