The 'Common' Cold

The average adult has two to four colds per year; young children have six to eight. Most colds last seven to ten days but symptoms may linger up to three weeks. Rhinovirus is the most common cause, accounting for 30 to 50 percent of all respiratory tract infections. Currently, no antiviral medications are available to treat the common cold.

The main goal of care is to treat symptoms. Most over the counter (OTC) products are combinations of medications and are suitable for adults. In 2008, the US Food and Drug Administration recommended that over the counter medications not be given to children younger than two years and ‘cough and cold’ preparations are among the top ten substances involved in the injury of children younger than five years.

In general, I prefer single ingredient medications. If one takes more than one combination product (such as a cough, cold and fever reducer) there is the risk of mistakenly taking too much medicine. Many of the OTC products have significant amounts of acetaminophen (Tylenol) that can be toxic to the liver, especially if there is alcohol use. Products with ibuprofen (Motrin) can cause gastrointestinal upset. One of the best treatments for the common cold is breathing up steam (such as from a hot cup of tea or in the shower). The body’s natural defense mechanisms work best when the mucosa is wet – a stuffed nose can lead to mouth breathing that will dry out the airways.

My preferred OTC medication is guiaifenisen, which thins secretions thereby making it easier to mobilize them. Guiaifenisen is available as a single ingredient (Humibid, Mucinex) as well in combination with other medications. Once again, I prefer the single ingredient product.

More information on guiaifenesin.

An outstanding recipe for chicken soup.