Common cold (upper respiratory infection)

Description A contagious viral ...

Description

A contagious viral infection that principally involves the upper-respiratory passages, the nose, throat, sinuses, ears, eustachian tubes, trachea, larynx, and bronchial tubes. Since they are caused by a virus, common colds are not responsive to antibiotics. Sometimes it is difficult to tell the difference between a cold and the flu based on symptoms alone. Special tests must be done within the first few days of illness to confirm a diagnosis of the flu. Colds are usually milder than the flu with lower fevers and milder body aches. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations. 

Symptoms

Symptoms tend to start with a runny nose and sore throat followed by a cough. The cough produces white, clear sputum. The mucous from the runny nose (rhinorrhea) is clear. Fever may be present although not as high as with other viral illnesses such as the flu. Muscle aches (myalgias) and headache are common. The headache tends to be mild to moderate in severity.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A Chest X-ray to rule out pneumonia is sometimes performed. Tests to rule-out influenza (the flu) may be recommended.

Tests:
X-ray

Other Specific Tests: Rapid influenza test, RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus) detection test

Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice

Treatment

Treatment includes: medications for fever (acetaminophen, ibuprofen), antihistamines for excessive runny nose, and oral fluids to reverse dehydration. There is currently no vaccination for the common cold.