During the winter months, three-quarters of the population suffer from this benign respiratory ailment caused by a virus. Except in cases of superinfection, it heals spontaneously within a week. Viral colds should not be confused with hay fever or allergic rhinitis.
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To avoid spending the winter at the back of your bed, you need to know how to prevent and combat all those little ailments that plague you: coughs, sore throats, runny noses, ear infections, bronchitis and flu-like conditions.
Rhinoviruses are the main infectious agents of the common cold, belonging to the picornaviridae family. These viruses are common in temperate climates, particularly in winter. There are over 100 serotypes. They are naked RNA viruses (more resistant than enveloped viruses).
Contamination of the nasal cavity by rhinoviruses or coronaviruses activates severalinflammation factors, including histamine. Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system is thought to be responsible for the runny nose. These viruses are highly contagious, being transmitted from one person to another by direct contact between individuals, by inhalation of airborne micro-droplets (sneezing), or by contact with a contaminated object.
The common cold or rhinopharyngitis is a benign respiratory infection characterized by a runny nose and/or a blocked nose.
Its symptoms are very similar to those of the flu or other acute infectious diseases: fever, headache, runny nose, nasal congestion, chills, fatigue, mild aches and pains, sneezing.
A runny, stuffy nose and sneezing are the most unpleasant and common symptoms of a viral cold (commonly known as the common cold). The liquid that runs out is clear at first, but often becomes thicker and purulent after a few days. At this point, the nose becomes easily blocked. Other common symptoms include a tickling or even burning sensation in the nose, a more or less pronounced loss of smell and taste, and even fever.
In children, the common cold is most often rhinopharyngitis.
The common cold usually resolves itself without complications. When the mucous membrane is highly inflamed or natural defenses are weakened, other respiratory illnesses can occur in the upper respiratory tract (tracheitis, bronchitis), sinuses or middle ear. Infections can then set in, leading to a variety of illnesses, such as sinusitis or otitis.
(Source : https://www.vidal.fr/maladies/nez-gorge-oreilles/rhume-rhinite.html)
In the event of a temperature above 38°C or a headache, a fever and painkiller(paracetamol, aspirin, NSAID, etc.) may be all you need.
Saline or seawater solutions, sold in pharmacies and drugstores, are effective for cleansing and clearing the nose. They can be used several times a day, depending on nasal congestion. For nasal cleansing, prefer single-dose products.
Antibacterial nasal solutions can be used to disinfect the nose. Once opened, they can become contaminated with germs. Do not keep them beyond the duration of your treatment. Inhalation solutions containing plant essences (eucalyptus, peppermint, camphor, etc.) help decongest the respiratory tract.
Nasal solutions containing a decongestant vasoconstrictor (alone or combined with an antiseptic or anti-inflammatory) are sometimes prescribed as short-term adjunctive treatment for adult colds. Only available on prescription, these nasal solutions carry a risk of chronic rhinitis if the dosage is not respected. Their use should be limited to a maximum of 5 days. In addition, repeated spraying may lead to greater passage of the vasoconstrictor into the bloodstream, resulting in palpitations, nausea or headaches. These drugs should never be combined with any other medication containing a vasoconstrictor (nasal or oral): such a combination is unnecessary and dangerous. For the most part, they are no longer reimbursed by Social Security since September 1, 2012.
Nasal solutions containing corticoids have an anti-inflammatory effect on the mucous membranes of the nose. Physicians can prescribe them for certain forms of rhinitis. They are most effective when used after blowing the nose.
If you decide to self-medicate with a cold medication:
(Source: https: //www.vidal.fr/maladies/nez-gorge-oreilles/rhume-rhinite/traitements.html)
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If the cold is associated with a high fever, earache, severe headache or respiratory problems. | |
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If nasal secretions regularly show blood. | |
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If the cold does not subside within ten days. | |
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If the cold causes serious discomfort. | |
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If the symptoms are typical of a cold, without complications. |
LEGEND |
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These treatments are available without prescription on Soin-et-Nature and guarantee effective treatment in line with medical recommendations.