Rhinoviruses and the Common Cold
Rhinoviruses (rhin means “nose”) are the primary cause of the common cold. They can also lead to sore throats, ear infections, and mouth infections. The common cold is the most prevalent sickness, with an estimated 2-3 billion episodes yearly. While this does not mean everyone experiences a cold annually, it highlights the significant role rhinovirus infection plays in causing upper respiratory infections.
How Do You Catch a Rhinovirus?
There are various ways people can catch a rhinovirus:
- Contact with an Infected Person: The most common way is through direct contact with someone infected, such as shaking hands, hugging, or kissing.
- Touching Contaminated Surfaces: You can also catch it by touching objects an infected person has touched, like doorknobs or countertops, and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Inhaling Droplets: Another method is inhaling droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze, which can carry the virus.
- Contaminated Food or Water: Although less common, consuming contaminated food or water can also transmit the virus.
Symptoms of Rhinovirus Infection
Rhinoviruses are the most frequent cause of the common cold. Symptoms include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Watery eyes
- Sore throat
Some individuals may also experience fever, headache, or fatigue. Rhinoviruses can additionally lead to ear, sinus, and respiratory tract infections.
What Can Worsen Symptoms or Cause More Symptoms?
Several factors can exacerbate symptoms or lead to new ones:
- Smoking: Cigarette smoke irritates the lungs and airways, making breathing harder and worsening coughing.
- Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can dehydrate the body and increase inflammation, aggravating symptoms.
- Exposure to Sick Individuals: Being around others who are ill increases the risk of infection and severity of symptoms.
- Weakened Immune System: Health conditions or medications that impair the immune system can lead to severe complications.
Can I Get a Cold from a Rhinovirus That Someone Else Has Had?
Yes, rhinoviruses are highly contagious and spread through:
- Coughing and Sneezing: Inhalation of droplets expelled by an infected person.
- Contaminated Surfaces: Touching shared objects such as doorknobs, countertops, or utensils.
Preventing the spread includes washing your hands frequently, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
What to Do After Infection and When to Expect Recovery
If you suspect a rhinovirus infection, follow these steps to ease symptoms and speed recovery:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to thin mucus and keep your throat hydrated.
- Soothing Sore Throats: Use lozenges or hard candy to relieve throat discomfort.
- Nasal Congestion Relief: Use saline nasal sprays or drops to clear congestion.
- Warm Compress: Place a warm, damp cloth over your face to open sinuses.
- Rest: Get as much rest as possible to help your body focus on recovery.
Most colds resolve within a week or two without treatment. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, consult a doctor.
How to Overcome Secondary Infections
To reduce the risk of secondary infections:
- Hydration and Rest: Keep hydrated and ensure adequate rest.
- Over-the-Counter Medications: Use ibuprofen or paracetamol to relieve pain or fever.
- Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and disinfect surfaces at home.
Following these steps can help you recover from a rhinovirus infection without complications.