Cold
Cold
Cold (pronounced: /koʊld/) is a common viral infection primarily affecting the nose and throat.
Etymology
The term "cold" comes from the Old English cald, which is akin to Old High German and Old Norse kaldr, all meaning "cold". The term was used to describe the condition due to the similarity of its symptoms to those experienced in cold weather.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a cold can vary, but they typically include:
Causes
Colds are caused by a variety of viruses, but the most common is the rhinovirus. Other viruses that can cause colds include coronavirus, respiratory syncytial virus, and influenza virus.
Treatment
There is no cure for a cold, but symptoms can be managed with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications. Antibiotics are not effective against the viruses that cause colds.
Prevention
Prevention strategies for colds include regular hand washing, avoiding close contact with people who have a cold, and not touching your face with unwashed hands.
Related Terms
- Flu: A more severe viral infection that can cause symptoms similar to a cold, but also includes fever and body aches.
- Pneumonia: A serious infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which can fill with fluid.
- Bronchitis: An inflammation of the lining of your bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cold
- Wikipedia's article - Cold
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