Treatment for common cold is symptomatic-Dr Achidi

Dr Jude Ngu Achidi, Public Health Specialist, explains the recurrence of cold among Yaounde residents at this time of the year.

What is the possible cause of recurrent common cold now?

Common cold or upper respiratory tract infection is due to a virus called common cold which affects people in large epidemics in a given community. It usually occurs during change in season as people are exposed to the different changes in the environment. It is easily transmitted from one person to another through immediate and close contact with those infected. As of now, we cannot determine if it is a season for common cold since statistics have not been made on the number of people who have been reported in hospitals with common cold symptoms.

What are the symptoms of common cold?

It includes headaches, light fever, joint pains, lack of appetite, fatigue and general body weakness. At times these symptoms may be severe that mimic malaria or influenza symptoms.

What is the treatment for common cold?

The treatment of common cold is actually symptomatic. We treat the symptoms presented by the patient. At times we provide a combination of medication that will bring relief for the headaches, light fever, joint pains, lack of appetite, fatigue or general body weakness. At times we may provide a substance that helps decongest the nostrils if the patient has a problem of blocked nostrils.

At times, people can suffer from common cold and get healed without taking any medication. This is because some people have an effective or normal immune system. The immune system should be able to handle the common cold virus within 48 to 72 hours without the patient taking any treatment. But in children and old people who have a weaker immune system, common cold could be a serious problem leading to further complications. It could lead to renal problems and other complications.

How can common cold be prevented?

People should keep warm and avoid contact with people who have common cold or symptoms of common cold. People should wash their hands regularly, drink hot fluids and take medications if they already have it. It is advisable for those already suffering from common cold to consult a medical practitioner, take certain medications to relief symptoms as well as keep clean to avoid infecting others.