Common cold (acute coryza)

Question 1

Features

Answer 1

This highly infectious URTI

Often mistakenly referred to as ‘the flu’

Produces a mild systemic upset and prominent nasal symptoms

Question 2

Common viral causes:

Answer 2

Rhinovirus

Coronavirus

Parainfluenza

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

Adenovirus

Influenza

Question 3

Typical clinical features

Answer 3

• Malaise and tiredness
• Sore, runny nose
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Slight fever

Other possible symptoms:

• Headache
• Hoarseness
• Cough

The watery nasal discharge becomes thick and purulent in ~24 hrs and persists for up to a week.

Secondary bacterial infection is uncommon.

Question 4

Management

Answer 4

rest 24–48 h if feeling weak

aspirin or paracetamol (up to 8 tabs/d for adults)

steam inhalations using menthol or Friar’s balsam for blocked nose only

gargle aspirin in lemon juice for sore throat (avoid aspirin in children)

vitamin C—2 g/d for 5–7 d (clinical trials for this, zinc lozenges and echinacea inconclusive)

increase fluid intake → copious fluids

stop smoking (if applicable)

use cough drops or syrup for a dry, troublesome cough