Is It a Cold?

I knew I should have washed my hands after I went to the Mall.

Mar 2, 2007 Lois Trader

For at least three days my contacts were so uncomfortable that I had to wear my glasses. That is unusual for me. Funny, I'm the one that always says "listen to your body"

But, here are some good reminders. The sneezing is all around us, and sure, that person could have an allergy, but you need to know what you’ve experiencing.

What is the common cold?

The common cold is an infection of the head and chest caused by a virus. It is a type of upper respiratory infection (URI). It can affect your nose, throat, sinuses, and ears. A cold can also affect the tube that connects your middle ear and throat, as well as your windpipe, voice box, and airways.

How does it occur?

Over 200 different viruses can cause colds. The infection spreads when viruses are passed to others by sneezing, coughing, or personal contact. You may also become infected by handling objects that were touched by someone with a cold.

What can be done to help prevent the spread of colds?

The following suggestions may help prevent the spread of your cold to others.

• Wash hands after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
• Use paper towels in bathrooms.
• Don't share food or eating utensils with others.
• Try and avoid contact with people who have a cold.
• Whole food supplement.
• Make sure you get all your fruits and vegetables required to insure a healthy body.

The copyright of the article Is It a Cold? in General Medicine is owned by Lois Trader. Permission to republish Is It a Cold? in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.