The common cold is an infectious viral condition of the upper respiratory system (nose and throat). Symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, a scratchy, sore, or phlegmy throat, coughing, headaches and tiredness. It is the most common of diseases.
The common cold is different from influenza, which is a more severe viral infection that shows additional symptoms of rapidly rising fever, chills and body and muscle aches. The common cold itself is rarely life threatening, but its potential complications, such as pneumonia, can be, especially for the elderly.
Causes
The common cold is caused by any one of several hundred mutating viruses (e.g. rhinovirus, coronavirus...). The viruses are transmitted from person to person by droplets from coughs or sneezes.
After a common cold, a sufferer develops immunity to the particular virus encountered.
However, because of the large number of different viruses concerned, this immunity offers limited protection and a person can therefore be easily infected by another cold virus...and so on.
The body's immune system is most important in protecting against cold infection with the aim of destroying infected cells to prevent further replication.
Increased stress, dehydration, lack of essential nutrients (weakening immunity and consequent defences), or toxicity of the immune system all deplete immune responses and make the body more susceptible to infection. Smoking and alcohol also deplete the immune system in this way, increasing susceptibility. Allergic disorders affecting the nasal passages or throat also have an impact on a person's susceptibility to colds.
Preventative Help
Echinacea, vitamin C, natural proteins and zinc are just some popular preparations used in cold prevention.
The true way to get over and to avoid a cold is to stop consuming toxins and help with the elimination of the existing toxins from the body, increasing immune system strength and infection-fighting abilities.