The ease with which anyone can contract cold and flu make them unhealthy, even though people tend to brush it off. Read on to know the common causes and treatments for cold and flu so that you can take appropriate precautions at the right time.

Cold

The common cold is a viral infection and usually affects the upper tract of the respiratory system. Researchers have identified many varieties of viruses that are responsible for causing cold.

Causes

• Virus

Among the many viruses which are responsible for cold, rhinovirus is the most common. A cold virus can enter the human body via the mouth, eyes, or nose.

• Communicated through an infected person

Catching the virus is easy since it is spread through tiny droplets that can escape from an infected person if they cough, talk, or sneeze next to a healthy person. Similarly, normal contact with an infected person or a surface contaminated with the droplets can also cause the infection. Subsequent contact of contaminated hands on your eyes, nose, or mouth can result in the virus entering your body and cause cold.

• Treatment

As such, there is no cure for common colds. Once you catch it, you can obtain treatment to relieve its underlying symptoms. These include pain relievers, nasal sprays, and cough syrups. Many home remedies are also recommended, such as drinking fluids, taking saline nasal drops, and adjusting the room temperature.

Flu

Just like the common cold, the flu is also quite easy to catch. Typical symptoms include headaches and nasal congestion.

• Causes

The influenza virus causes flu. It can infect the lungs, throat, or nose. The usual way of contracting the virus includes inhaling droplets of an infected person. Touching surfaces and then your mouth, nose, or eyes can allow the virus to enter your body.

• Treatment

The cure for flu includes taking adequate rest and allowing your body a chance to recover from the impact of the virus. In cases of severe infection, doctors may prescribe medicines such as Tamiflu or Relenza. The purpose of these medicines is to improve your condition and prevent it from becoming severe. The patient can also consume certain pain relievers, which can provide relief from the disease. It is highly recommended that the patient consumes enough liquids and takes food on time to limit the virus’s impact.

So, these are some of the common causes and treatments for cold and flu. Knowledge of the same will help you prevent and overcome them easily.