Diseases
common cold
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
The common cold is a viral infection of your nose and throat (upper respiratory tract). It's usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. Many types of viruses can cause a common cold.
Symptoms
- runny or stuffy nose
- cough
- sore throat
- congestion
- slight body aches or a mild headache
Causes
- many types of viruses can cause a common cold, rhinoviruses are the most common cause.
Risk factors
- infants and young children are at greatest risk of colds.
- weakened immune system.
- exposure
Diagnosis
- most people with a common cold can be diagnosed by their signs and symptoms.
- chest x-ray or other tests to rule out other causes of your symptoms.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is common cold?
The common cold is a viral infection of your nose and throat (upper respiratory tract). It's usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. Many types of viruses can cause a common cold.
What are the symptoms of common cold?
runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, congestion, slight body aches or a mild headache
What causes common cold?
many types of viruses can cause a common cold, rhinoviruses are the most common cause.
Which medicines are used for common cold?
brompheniramine, cetirizine, chlorpheniramine, desloratadine, doxylamine, echinacea, fexofenadine, guaifenesin, hydroxyzine, loratadine, promethazine, zinc
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.