Understanding and managing the common cold  

It’s that time of the year again. After all the festivities of December, all the kisses and well-wishes, there is more than hope and joy that spread among us. Marked by close gatherings and travel, the festive season often coincides with a peak in common respiratory viral infections, such as the common cold.

The most common virus to cause a common cold is the rhinovirus. It causes inflammation of the throat and infection of the nasal mucosae.

Because of the inflammation, the mucosae of the nose and throat thicken and you produce more mucus. You can observe the following symptoms:

• A congestive nose or a running nose
• Sneezing
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Hoarseness/ raspy voice
• Headache

A person can have an average of two to four common colds a year. It usually passes without needing extra care and most symptoms resolve within 10 days. However, some symptoms can last for a couple of weeks. For example, coughing can persist for up to four weeks.

How to break the chain of transmission

The virus spreads through direct hand-to-hand contact and respiratory droplets (expelled via coughing and sneezing), so good hand hygiene is essential.

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or disinfect with hand sanitizer (alcogel).
• Use disposable single-use tissues instead of a reusable cotton handkerchief.
• Cough or sneeze into the inner elbow or a tissue.
• If hands are used to cover a cough or sneeze, wash them immediately.

How to reduce the symptoms

The common cold, while often not serious, can make you feel miserable. As it is a viral infection, antibiotics are not advised unless a secondary bacterial infection is confirmed. Unnecessary antibiotic use contributes to the critical global issue of antimicrobial resistance. This means that some bacteria become less or not sensitive to certain antibiotics and thus reducing treatment options.

The body’s immune system is capable of resolving the infection autonomously within seven to 10 days. To relieve the symptoms caused by the common cold, you can try several things.

1. Pain and fever management

Over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol (acetaminophen), can alleviate headache, muscle aches, and general discomfort.

There are lozenges available that can sooth the sore throat.

2. Nasal sprays

The first option is to use a saline solution. Regular irrigation of the nasal passages with a saline solution helps clear mucus and reduce congestion. This treatment is safe for all and can be used as much as needed.

The second option is to divert to specific nasal decongestants. Two main classes are used to manage persistent congestion.

Caution on Decongestive Sprays: Prolonged use (over 5 days) of decongestive sprays can lead to a rebound effect where mucosal swelling increases upon cessation of the spray, trapping the user in a cycle of dependence. Therefore, these sprays should be reserved for short-term use, preferably only at night. Ask your doctor for advice if you recognize this long term dependence.

3. Cough

Coughing is a natural and useful reflex. When you cough, your body is eliminating mucus, dust or irritating substances in the respiratory tract. We can make a distinction between different types of cough:

Acute cough: starts suddenly and goes away within four weeks, typically caused by a virus.
Chronic cough: lasts longer than four weeks.

Dry cough: characterized by a tickling sensation without mucus production.
Productive/wet cough: accompanied by the excretion of mucus.

While cough syrups are available, their efficacy in shortening the duration of a cold-related cough is not definitively proven. It often focuses on soothing the irritation. When taking them, always use them as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.
Furthermore, avoid irritants, particularly smoking and dusty areas.

When to go see my doctor

While the common cold is generally mild and self-limiting, you should visit a healthcare professional if you notice any of the following:

• You have a fever that lasts longer than three days.
• You are having trouble breathing (short of breath).
• You are coughing up blood.
• Your cough lasts longer than four weeks.
• You have a strong, general feeling of being very sick and weak.

Your doctor can rule out complications or other infections.

Note/disclaimer:

This is general advice. For personal questions about the common cold, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

This information is provided by the Pharmacist Association of Sint Maarten (PAS). PAS is dedicated to improving the quality of pharmaceutical care on the island. All pharmacies on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten are proud members of PAS.