How long does it take to recover from a cold?

Written by Han Shun Li
Pulmonology
Updated on January 12, 2025
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The common cold is one of the most frequently seen diseases in clinical settings, caused by viral infections. The most prevalent symptoms are nasal, such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. Additionally, there can be discomfort in the throat, coughing, and some patients may experience mild fever, chills, and headaches. Generally, the natural course of a cold is about five to seven days, so it's possible to recover from a cold within a week. However, since there are currently no specific medications for treating the common cold, it is important to rest, avoid getting chilled, drink plenty of water, quit smoking, and ensure good ventilation in the room to aid recovery from a cold.

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Symptoms of childhood cold and encephalitis

Some common symptoms of encephalitis secondary to a cold in children primarily include fever, usually moderate to high, though some may exhibit low fever. Next, symptoms such as headache, dizziness, primarily around the forehead, crown, or occipital region, may occur. This is followed by vomiting, which is generally more evident after eating or drinking, with some exhibiting persistent vomiting. Additionally, some may experience lethargy, weakness, or even seizures.

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The difference between viral and bacterial colds

The main differences between viral and bacterial colds are: First, the pathogens are different. Viral colds are primarily caused by viruses, while bacterial colds are mainly caused by bacterial infections. Second, the characteristics of contagion differ. Viral colds generally have stronger contagiousness, such as influenza, which has distinct characteristics of outbreaks and often occurs seasonally in spring and winter, with a sudden onset. Bacterial colds are less contagious and typically occur sporadically. Third, the symptoms differ. Generally, viral colds mainly present symptoms of nasal congestion, runny nose, and other upper respiratory catarrhal symptoms. Bacterial colds mainly present with fever, sore throat, tonsillitis, and other symptoms. Fourth, in terms of examinations, a typical hemogram for viral colds usually shows normal or low white blood cells, with an increase in lymphocytes, while bacterial colds often show an increase in white blood cells or neutrophils. Fifth, the treatment approaches differ. Treatment for viral colds primarily includes antiviral therapy, nutritional support, ventilation, and hydration. Bacterial colds are mainly treated with antibiotics and anti-infection therapies.

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Seasonal change cold is what kind of cold?

Seasonal colds are caused by the change of seasons, where the difference between day and night temperatures is significant. This cold is due to external pathogenic wind, which is related to a decrease in the body's immune capacity and exposure to cold. It involves infection by rhinoviruses and can lead to symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, headache, and fever. It is advised to drink plenty of water, rest, monitor body temperature, and treat symptoms accordingly. If there are no other complications, complete recovery can occur within 3 to 7 days.

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What is a cold?

Colds are classified as a type of disease, and clinically, they are mainly divided into common colds and influenza. They are among the most common respiratory infectious diseases in daily life, caused by viral infections. The common cold is mainly caused by rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, and other viruses, while influenza is mostly caused by influenza viruses or parainfluenza viruses and other pathogens. Symptoms include drowsiness, fatigue, fever, nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. The main treatments include drinking plenty of water, antiviral therapy, and symptomatic treatment.

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Symptoms of cold and fever in children

Child colds indicate an upper respiratory infection, mostly caused by viral infections, with some triggering bacterial infections. It is very common for children with colds to have fevers. In such cases, it is important to ensure the child is well-hydrated. If the temperature exceeds 38.5°C, fever-reducing medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen suspension should be administered. Additionally, cold medications can be taken to alleviate symptoms. When the temperature is below 38.5°C, drinking plenty of fluids is usually sufficient. In essence, the main treatment for a cold is symptomatic relief. Symptoms like fever, runny nose, sneezing, and coughing are all common with colds. (Please take medication under the guidance of a professional physician, and do not self-medicate.)