A case of the common cold can look slightly different from person to person. Still, infections come the same way. Viruses cause colds, usually rhinovirus, coronavirus, or RSV. Colds come in various levels of severity, including serious, minor, and everything in between. You will likely sneeze and cough as well as struggle with congestion and a sore throat. A fever and body aches are other possible symptoms.
Colds are highly contagious and can spread with little difficulty. The virus passes from person to person due to close contact. This can happen from touching and from droplets from coughing or sneezing. Colds can affect people at any time of the year, but winter and late fall are the most common seasons. Anyone can get a cold, though young children under age two are the most susceptible.
It is possible to prevent exposure to the cold virus. Handwashing is the most effective measure. Doing so with soap for at least 20 seconds can keep a person from contracting this illness. Sanitizing areas of the home that people touch often will also help. Also, people should avoid others who are sick, particularly during peak cold season.
Of the many symptoms that can come with the common cold, a fever can be one of the most distressing. A fever is the body’s response to killing the infection. It can be present during the duration of the cold, or it can come at the outset or tail-end of the illness. Fevers are typically low-grade with a cold — around 100 degrees. But higher fevers can affect the person with a cold. If the fever rises or does not go away after a few days, the person should go to urgent care.
Like fevers, body aches do not come from the common cold itself. Instead, body aches result from the immune system fighting the virus. A person with a cold will likely experience aches and pains in the joints and muscles. These sensations are effects of the body defending itself and trying to keep the infection from spreading.
People can turn to a few methods to treat fevers and body aches. Rest and fluids are two of the most effective techniques. Resting and drinking plenty of water will help the body heal and speed up the recovery process. In addition, taking pain medication such as Tylenol and Ibuprofen can help fevers and body aches to subside. Rotating ice packs and heat packs can also soothe sore muscles.
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Cold symptoms can be mild, but often, you will have a more serious reaction. Fevers and body aches can occur and last throughout your cold’s life span. Both are effects of the body’s response to the virus. Be prepared to treat these symptoms. You can turn to medication and rest and drink lots of water.
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