Important Facts about Common Cold

Common cold is a viral infection of upper respiratory tract. Since there is no cure for common cold, the best option is prevention. Once a cold has a firm grip on you, it is hard to stop it.

Here we are listing some important facts about common cold that you need to know:

• There are many over-the-counter medications available for common cold, but none of them can actually cure common cold. They can only be used to alleviate cold symptoms.
• Bovine colostrums, taken in the cold and flu season may help to ward off infection.
• It is unlikely that a vaccine will ever be developed to prevent the common cold because the viruses responsible have the ability to change in shape and size, and have hundreds of different forms.
• The possibility for real cold relief may lie in substances like interferon, natural proteins that the body produces in response to viral infection.
• Interferon seems to improve the respiratory tract’s ability to ward off viruses.
• Vitamin C promotes interferon production.
• Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections. It is important to understand that penicillin and most other antibiotics work only against bacterial infection and not on viral infections.
• You can catch cold when your immune system is weakened such as during stress and/or because of poor diet, viruses can take hold. These viruses are opportunistic and lie dormant in the body, taking hold when the immune system is at its weakest.
• Allergies can cause symptoms that mimic those of colds and flu. Allergy testing is recommended.
• Anyone who has frequent colds or bouts with the flu should be checked for thyroid malfunction. When you are well, perform the thyroid function self-test. If your temperature is low, consult your health care provider.
• Congestion, cough, and/or sore throat are the signs of a cold, but if these symptoms occur together with fever or fatigue, you may have the flu.
• If congestion develops in the chest, it is best to consult a physician, as chest (lung) infection can be serious.
• If your fever goes above 102^o F for more than 3 days, or experience any other sign or symptom consult your doctor.

Reference:
Phyllis A. Balch, CNC & James F. Balch, M.D. (2000). Prescription for Nutritional Healing. (3rd edition) Page No. 297-300. Penguin Putnam INC. New York: Avery.