Cold and cough symptoms.

Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
Updated on April 28, 2025
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A cold is caused by the invasion of various pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma, and chlamydia into our upper respiratory tract, leading to inflammation there. Due to the inflammation in the upper respiratory tract, a large amount of secretions such as nasal discharge and phlegm in the throat are produced, causing symptoms like coughing. Some patients may have a dry cough, while others might cough up phlegm, which can be white or yellow. Coughing during a cold is a common symptom, and it can generally be addressed by taking some cold medicines, which are available as both traditional Chinese and Western medicines. Choosing the right medicine that suits one's needs can help treat the symptoms of a cold cough. (The use of medicines should be carried out under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Is a cold dangerous for membranous nephropathy?

Patients with membranous nephropathy becoming ill with a cold is indeed quite dangerous. This is because, firstly, a cold often leads to the relapse or aggravation of membranous nephropathy, causing changes in the condition of the disease. Secondly, patients with membranous nephropathy often use corticosteroids and immunosuppressants to control the disease, and a major side effect of these medications is that they suppress the body's immune capability, making infections more likely to occur. Once an infection sets in, it can lead to septic shock and the inflammation of multiple organs, with potentially life-threatening consequences for some patients.

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Treatment for sore throat caused by a cold

To treat a sore throat from a cold, the main principle is to choose sensitive antibiotics or antiviral medications, in combination with medications that clear the lungs and benefit the throat for symptomatic treatment. One should first observe whether there are hypertrophic lymphoid follicles on the posterior pharyngeal wall, whether the tonsils are hypertrophied and enlarged, and whether there are diseases such as herpetic pharyngotonsillitis. If it is due to an acute exacerbation of chronic pharyngitis, one can choose to take macrolide antibiotics, combined with medications such as throat pills and pharyngitis tablets. Nebulization inhalation can also be adopted, which acts like a local treatment and can have a more direct effect.

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Can you exercise when you have a cold?

After catching a cold, it is appropriate to engage in some mild exercise, such as walking or slow-paced walking. It is crucial not to partake in intense physical activities as they can lead to fatigue and a decrease in immunity, potentially worsening bacterial infections. Moreover, intense exercise can cause the sweat pores to expand, further aggravating cold symptoms. After a cold, the body tends to be weaker, so it is advisable to drink more ginger sugar water, rest adequately, and avoid spicy, greasy, and irritating foods. Drinking plenty of water is also important. If there are symptoms of fever, physical methods should be used to reduce the fever.

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What should a baby eat when they have a cold?

During a cold, both babies and adults generally prefer liquid food over solid food. Babies who haven't started on solid food should drink as much milk as possible. For those who are beginning to eat solid foods, in addition to drinking more milk, you can also appropriately increase their intake of plain water and rice porridge. Older children, besides the aforementioned, can also appropriately consume some light soups and can increase their intake of fresh vegetables and fruits. These can be made into vegetable purees or juiced according to the baby's needs. Babies are more prone to dehydration when they have a cold or fever. To prevent dehydration or treat mild dehydration, fresh apple juice can be used as a substitute. For moderate or severe dehydration, seek medical attention promptly; the doctor will take necessary measures for rehydration.

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Can I eat bayberry when I have a cold and cough?

A cold, also known as an upper respiratory tract infection, is very common clinically. Most cases are caused by decreased immune function in patients, who may accidentally get chilled, wet in the rain, or directly infected by others with a cold. Typically, if a patient with a cold also has a cough, it is mostly due to viral infection. Thus, such cases are considered self-limiting diseases clinically. Therefore, we generally advise patients with colds to drink more water and eat more fresh vegetables and fruits. Additionally, consuming more of certain fruits like pears, loquats, strawberries, water chestnuts, and particularly bayberries, which are very common and nutritionally rich in organic acids, cellulose, fats, beta-carotene, vitamin B, and vitamin C—all essential for the body—is recommended. Eating bayberries can be beneficial for cold and cough patients and aid in faster recovery from the illness.