Stuffy, running nose, coughing, congestion—ut oh, sounds like you’re developing the common cold. If you’re beginning to feel under the weather, you may be wondering how to determine if you have a common cold or even something more serious.
In this article, we’ll outline how to determine if you have a common cold by identifying the symptoms as well as what to do to start feeling better after you’ve been diagnosed.
What is the Common Cold?
The common cold, also referred to as a cold is a very common ailment that’s caused by a viral infection of the upper respiratory system. Colds usually begin with a sore throat, and before you know it, you start feeling a whole host of other symptoms along with it.
Sneezing, runny nose, coughing, fatigue, headache—these are a few of the most commonly felt symptoms of the common cold. While none of these are severe and life-threatening, it can certainly affect your ability to function properly throughout your day.
Cold sufferers commonly describe an overall feeling of malaise, or unwell, during the course of the virus. The viruses that cause colds can affect anyone, from adults to children and everyone in between.
Fevers are uncommon in cold sufferers. If you do have a fever, it could be a sign of the flu or an infection caused by bacteria.
Common Cold Treatment Methods
Unfortunately, there’s no cure right now for the common cold. Many people are mistaken when they think that antibiotics can help kill the common cold. Antibiotics can only kill a bacterial infection, they are of no use for a common cold virus.
There are several over the counter treatment methods available to help lessen and alleviate some of the symptoms you’re feeling, including:
- Pain relievers: these can be used to treat sore throat, headache, body aches and more. Acetaminophen is the most popular over-the-counter pain reliever.
- Nasal sprays: there are several nasal sprays and drops available, both for adults and children, that help to loosen up mucus and flush the upper respiratory system out.
- Cough syrup: this can be used to stifle your cough, loosen mucus, and soothe a dry, irritated throat.
The most common treatment method is rest and lots of fluids. Viruses that cause colds aren’t curable yet, so we often resort to letting it “run its course.”
Clinical Studies for the Common Cold Are Underway in Miami
If you’ve determined that you’re suffering from a common cold, there may actually be an upside. Sure, you’re still probably going to be feeling sluggish for a few days and you’ll certainly want to make sure you have enough tissues on hand, but those in Miami have an opportunity to get paid for their cold.
Miami Clinical Trials has begun seeking common cold sufferers to participate in a clinical trial that’s researching colds, their causes, and potential new treatment methods. If you’ve begun experiencing cold symptoms over the last couple of days, you may be eligible to participate, receive cutting edge treatment, and help advance medical research.
JOIN NOW —-> APPLY TODAY!
