13 facts about the common cold. To borrow from the Mayo Clinic website, common colds are usually harmless but they may not feel that way. How true! I'm battling one now and it's embarrassing how much thought and attention I waste on it!
1. How long a cold lasts. I could not find a definitive answer. Seven days ... 10 days ... two weeks ... no one seems to know for sure. (I'm on day 9 and it's just about over.)
2. Most of us will get at least one cold every year. The average number for adults seems to two per year, while children get more.
3. Smokers get more and worse colds. That's because smoking damages the respiratory system. It just does. PS That goes for pot, too. If you find yourself getting a lot of colds, maybe switch to gummies.
4. The best way to treat a cold seems to be water. Drink a lot of it. Wash your hands often with it. Keep the air moist by using a humidifier.
5. Antibiotics don't work on colds because colds are caused by viruses, not bacteria.
6. There is no cure. This sucks, but it's true. You can treat symptoms with OTC medications but you can't cure and, frankly, likely won't even shorten the duration, of your cold.
7. What are those symptoms? Runny nose and sneezes are the most prevalent. You can expect frequent, mild head and body aches. Coughs are common. Fevers less so, but they happen.
8. Antibiotics don't work on colds because colds are caused by viruses, not bacteria.
9. There's no real evidence that Vitamin C prevents or shortens a cold. But, to borrow a phrase, it couldn't hurt.
10. Chicken soup and hot tea help. Warm liquids can reduce the stuffy feeling in your nose and throat.
11. Are you sure it's a cold? If you find yourself sniffling and sneezing during the same time of year every year, you may wish to be checked for allergies. Those can be treated, and there's no reason to suffer needlessly.
12. The common cold can be a financial drain. Between workers who call in sick and those whose productivity is hampered by colds, this "harmless" affliction can have a real economic impact.
13. Beware of complications. Yeah, the common cold is usually no big deal at all. But if you find your symptoms worsening or lingering into Week 3, be smart and consult a physician.
