Nasal congestion cold is which type of cold?

Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
Updated on May 25, 2025
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Nasal congestion when catching a cold is a common symptom in daily life, mainly caused by viral infections due to exposure to cold. Common viruses include Coxsackievirus, influenza virus, and parainfluenza virus, all of which can lead to a cold. In addition to nasal congestion, patients with a cold usually also experience clear watery nasal discharge, sneezing, headache, fever, and fatigue among other clinical manifestations. When these symptoms occur, we can first complete a routine blood test and C-reactive protein test. A significant increase in the percentage of lymphocytes may be seen in patients with viral infections. Under the guidance of a physician, antiviral medications and symptomatic treatment drugs that clear the orifices can be used. The patient's symptoms can generally improve gradually within 5-7 days.

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Written by Qiu Xin Hui
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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What to eat for a cold caused by wind-cold

Cold due to wind-cold primarily occurs when the body's resistance is weakened, and it is exposed to the pathogenic influence of wind-cold. This pathogenic influence remains inside the body and cannot be expelled promptly. Symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose with clear discharge, sneezing, headache, aversion to cold, and floating pulse may occur. At this time, it is necessary to take some food or medicine that dispels wind and cold, and releases the exterior to regulate the body. You may choose to drink ginger and brown sugar water; ginger has an excellent effect in dispersing wind-cold, and brown sugar can enhance the body's resistance. Drink it hot to induce a slight sweat, which can quickly improve the symptoms of a cold due to wind-cold. (Specific medications should be taken under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Liu Yong
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Does a wind-heat cold cause clear nasal discharge?

Wind-heat cold often leads to the occurrence of a runny nose with clear mucus, which is common at the onset of this type of cold. Wind-heat cold is a common type of cold. Wind-heat cold frequently occurs in the summer and can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, headache, dizziness, fever, sneezing, runny nose, coughing, and sore throat. During a wind-heat cold, the cough typically produces phlegm. Treatment primarily involves the oral administration of cool and pungent herbs that relieve the exterior symptoms. It is also advised to drink plenty of water, eat a light diet, and rest adequately during a cold.

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Written by Qiu Xin Hui
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Is catching a cold from excessive internal heat the same as a wind-heat cold?

Colds caused by excessive internal heat are common in everyday life. They are mostly caused by wind-heat type colds, and part of them are what we often refer to as "cold wrapped in heat", meaning one has caught a wind-cold type cold while also showing symptoms of excessive internal heat. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) doctor in person for diagnosis. Based on one's condition, the diagnosis is made through the four examinations of inspection, listening and smelling, inquiry, and palpation to differentiate the syndromes and decide on the treatment. Colds caused by excessive internal heat generally require the use of herbs that clear heat and purge fire, combined with herbs that expel wind and release the exterior for treatment to achieve recovery. (The use of medicines should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Can you drink milk when you have a cold?

Patients with a cold can drink milk in moderation. For a cold, it is advisable to eat a light diet and avoid spicy, stimulating, and greasy food. However, it is appropriate to consume some protein-rich foods, such as lean meat and egg whites. During a cold, you can drink a small amount of milk, but it should not be consumed in large quantities. Since milk contains a lot of protein, and the immune system of patients with a cold is weakened, their absorption capacity is reduced. Drinking too much milk can be hard to absorb, thereby increasing the burden on gastrointestinal functions, making it easier to produce phlegm. Therefore, it is not recommended to drink a lot of milk if the cold is severe.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Is it normal for a baby to urinate less when they have a cold?

If a baby catches a cold, it might affect their gastrointestinal function, followed by a noticeable decrease in milk intake. Furthermore, if the baby is uncomfortable, they may become fussy and cry more than usual, which can lead to increased insensible water loss. In such cases, the baby with a cold might experience less frequent urination. This is generally considered normal. However, if the baby's urination decreases but their milk intake and other conditions are stable, parents should check for swelling in the eyelids or lower limbs. If swelling occurs, it is definitely abnormal, and medical attention should be sought promptly. The doctor will conduct specific examinations based on the baby's condition and decide if treatment is necessary.