Colds

A Cold is a contagious infection of the upper respiratory
airways caused by a virus.

The Common Cold, also known as an upper respiratory tract
infection (URTI), is caused by many different viruses. There are
over 200 viruses that can cause the common cold, but the most
common ones are rhinoviruses. After suffering a Cold, the body
develops immunity to that particular virus. If a person is exposed
to the same virus again, they may not catch a Cold, or may only
develop mild symptoms. However, because there are so many
cold-causing viruses, most people will never develop complete
immunity against the common Cold, making it one of the most
prevalent illnesses in society. The average adult may suffer up to
five Colds in a year.

Colds are transmitted by inhaling tiny droplets breathed out
from the nose or mouth of an infected person. The virus can also be
transmitted by direct contact with contaminated secretions on the
hands or by sharing eating utensils. You cannot catch a Cold simply
by being in cold weather – the virus must be present to enter the
body.

Symptoms first appear between 24 and 72 hours after exposure
to the virus and include:

• Discomfort in the nose or throat.
• Sneezing.
• General feeling of being unwell.
• Runny nose which is watery and clear at first and later becomes
  thicker, opaque and yellow-green.
• Many people also develop a cough.
• A slight fever may be present when symptoms first appear.

Symptoms usually disappear in 4-10 days, although a cough may
last up to two weeks.

Always consult your Doctor for diagnosis and advice. If the
Cold symptoms are severe or persist for longer than two weeks, seek
medical advice.

• There is no specific cure for a Cold. Antibiotics are not used
  as they are only effective against bacterial infections.
• Psychological stress can worsen Cold symptoms. Talk to your
  Doctor about stress management.
• Smoking can worsen the duration and severity of symptoms.
• Handwashing is essential to prevent further spread of the
  virus.
• Use tissues, rather than handkerchiefs and dispose of them as
  soon as they are used.
• Do not share cups, eating utensils or cigarettes. Avoid close
  contact with children, the elderly or people with weakened immune
  systems.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

• Savoury soups with plenty of vegetables are recommended. The
  fluid intake combined with warmth helps loosen up thick secretions.
  Avoid soups based on milk or cream as these may be hard to digest
  when you are unwell.
• Avoid foods that aggravate the cough reflex. Dry biscuits and
  spicy or very sweet foods may promote coughing while liquids tend
  to have a soothing action.
• Drink plenty of fluids to keep the mouth and throat moist and
  prevent dehydration. Water, dilute fruit juice, soup and herbal tea
  are good choices.
• Foods high in vitamins A, C, E and zinc may help the body to
  combat infections. Citrus fruits as well as red, orange and yellow
  fruits and vegetables are high in these vitamins.
• Garlic and onions should be eaten regularly to help shift mucus
  and boost immunity. Garlic has natural antibiotic properties which
  is thought to be useful in combating infections.

Supplements may only be of value if dietary intake is
inadequate.

• Vitamin C is associated with healthy immune
  function.
• Zinc supports immune function and may have antiviral
  effects.
• Echinacea can reduce the duration of cold symptoms and assist
  in prevention of colds.
• Garlic is reputed to have anti-bacterial properties, along with
  immune enhancing activity.
• Astragalus  may assist in preventing the common cold.

The listed essential oils are suggested for the temporary
relief of the symptoms of Colds. The most specific oils are shown
in capitals.

Aniseed, Basil, Citronella, EUCALYPTUS, Grapefruit, Lavender,
Lemon, Lime, Myrrh, Orange, Peppermint, PINE, TEA TREE,
THYME.

Application

MASSAGE: Blend any single listed essential oil or combination
of several essential oils – 5 drops (total) to 10mL (1/3 fl oz)
vegetable carrier oil such as Sweet Almond, Apricot Kernel. Apply
twice daily to chest, upper back and throat with gentle
massage.

STEAM INHALATION: In a bowl containing one litre of steaming
water, add 5 drops (total) of essential oil; cover head with towel
and inhale while leaning over bowl. Keep eyes closed.

VAPORISATION: Add 5 drops( total) single essential oil or
combination of several essential oils listed to water in oil
burner.

Ask your Pharmacist for advice.

1. Follow the Diet Hints
2. Ask your Pharmacist for Cold tablets, lozenges or cough
   mixtures, which may relieve the Cold symptoms.
3. There are inhalants and nasal sprays available from your
   Pharmacy. These are used to help clear nasal congestion. Ask your
   Pharmacist for suggestions.
4. If a fever – adults is present take paracetamol or aspirin. Do
   not give aspirin to children under 12 years because of possible
   side effects.
5. Excessive fatigue can increase the risk of infection. Rest
   helps with the recovery process.
6. Reduce or stop smoking. Ask your Pharmacist about anti-smoking
   products.
7. Use an antibacterial handwash to prevent spreading the
   virus.
8. Consider some nutritional supplements if the dietary vitamin
   intake is inadequate.