The common cold is experienced by the majority of the population once, twice, or many more times throughout the year. Episodes occur in greater frequency during the cold, wet winter months and tend to subside when the warmer days of summer set in.
Symptoms and Signs:
Distinct signs indicating the onset or progression of the common cold include a cough, fever, sore, red, dry throat, watery nasal discharge, sneezing, general nasal congestion, loss of strength, and reduced energy levels. As your cold progresses, mucus secretions thicken as white blood cells (WBCs) and dead organisms are flushed from the body. Interferon (a family of proteins that non-specifically inhibit viral replication inside host cells) released by blood cells and tissues result in the majority of these symptoms.
Common Cold vs. Influenza
Influenza, or the flu, involves more severe symptoms such as high fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, and usually occurs in epidemics. This viral illness also affects the whole body. For more information, see the dedicated section on Influenza.
Common Cold vs. Allergies
In an allergic reaction, there is no fever and no evidence of infection. Allergies, and the resulting cold-like symptoms, are often related to seasonal changes or chronic intake of allergenic foods.
For more information, see the dedicated section on Allergies.
