The document provides an overview of the common cold, a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, detailing its symptoms, risk factors, transmission methods, and treatment options. Key symptoms evolve over several days, and the average duration of the illness is 3 to 7 days, with potential airway reactivity changes lasting up to 4 weeks. Treatment options include decongestants, humidified air, and pain relievers, with a note on the limited effect of vitamin C.

1. SHIVANGI MAURYA
NURSING TUTOR
K.G.M.U, COLLEGE OF NURSING
LUCKNOW

2. INTRODUCTION
The common cold is a viral infection of
nose and throat (upper respiratory tract).
It's usually harmless. Many types of viruses
can cause a common cold.

3. Risk factors
These factors can increase more chances of getting a cold:
• Age: Children younger than six are at greatest risk of colds.
• Weakened immune system: Having a chronic illness or
otherwise weakened immune system increases your risk.
• Weather: Both children and adults are more
susceptible to colds in winter.

4. Symptoms the common cold
Day 1: sore or “scratchy” throat, +/- low grade fever.
Day 2-3: nasal obstruction, rhinorrhea, sneezing, thick
purulent nasal discharge.
Day 4-5: cough becomes bothersome, nasal symptoms less
severe.
•Average duration: 3-7 days.
•Virus-induced changes in airway reactivity can persist for
up to 4 weeks.

5. Symptoms: the common cold
Day 1

6. Symptoms: the common cold
Day 2 to 3

7. Symptoms: the Common Cold
Day 4 to 5
•Thick
purulent
nasal
discharge
does NOT
mean
bacterial
sinusitis!

8. INCUBATION PERIOD & DURATION
❖Incubation period 24 to 72
hours
❖Average duration 3 – 7
days
❖ Virus-induced changes in airway
reactivity can persist for up to 4
weeks (Rhinovirus )
❖2 to 3 episodes /per year

9. TRANSMISSION
❖ Hand –to- hand
❖ most efficient = direct contact
❖ virus can survive for 2 hours on human skin

12. TREATMENT
For adults — seek medical attention if:
•Fever greater than 101.3 F (38.5 C)
•Fever lasting five days or more or
returning after a fever-free period
•Shortness of breath
•Wheezing
•Severe sore throat, headache or sinus pain

13.  NASAL CONGESTION:
 Topical or oral decongestant – phenylephrine or
pseudoephedrine
 Topical intranasal spray - oxymetazoline and phenylephrine
 Humidified air and fluid intake
 PAIN RELIEVERS
❖ COUGH:
Dextromethorphan – cough
suppressant
❖ Benylin E – expectorant

14. COMPLEMENTARY/ ALTERNATIVE:
•Vitamin C
•No effect if started after onset of symptoms
•Inconsistent results if started before: may slightly
decrease cold duration if 200mg daily