10 November 2024

Cold

A cold is a condition where the nose produces mucus or snot, either occasionally or continuously. The mucus that comes out can look clear, green, or yellowish.

Causes of Colds:

1. Infection
   A cold can occur when a virus infects the nose, throat, or sinuses. Examples include influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), sinusitis, and COVID-19.

2. Allergies
   A person can experience a cold if exposed to substances that trigger allergies, such as dust, animal dander, or flower pollen. This condition is also called allergic rhinitis.

3. Exposure to cold or dry air
   Cold and dry air can change the balance of fluids in the nasal passages. This condition triggers the nervous system in the nose to release fluid.

4. Eating spicy foods
   A cold can be triggered by eating spicy foods, such as foods seasoned with chili, onions, or black pepper.

5. Medication side effects
   Medications can also cause side effects of colds, such as high blood pressure medication, birth control pills, anticonvulsants, and heart disease medications.

6. Hormonal imbalance
   A cold can also occur due to hormonal imbalances, such as during pregnancy.

When should you see a doctor?
Colds usually get better on their own. However, seek medical help immediately if you experience the following symptoms, as they could be signs of a more serious condition:

• Greenish or bloody mucus discharge, accompanied by an unpleasant odor

• Mucus discharge accompanied by sinus pain

• A cold that lasts more than 10 days

• A cold accompanied by a high fever (temperature of 39°C or more), severe headache, and severe pain in the forehead or face

• A cold accompanied by loss of sense of smell (anosmia) and sense of taste (ageusia)

• A cold accompanied by shortness of breath

• Nasal mucus discharge due to head injury

Cold Prevention:

• Wash your hands regularly to avoid germs

• Avoid contact with people who have colds or fevers

• Use tissues when blowing your nose and wash your hands afterwards

• Eat a balanced nutritious diet and exercise regularly to strengthen your immune system

• Wear a mask to avoid substances that can trigger allergies, such as dust or pollen

• Quit smoking to prevent irritation and inflammation of the nasal cavity nose

• Clean furniture, doorknobs, stair railings, and other frequently touched items at home, using a disinfectant solution

• Regularly get a flu vaccine every year

Reviewed by: dr. Widi Angga Kusuma, M.K.K.

Source: Alodokter Health Article

Photo: freepik.com