The etiology of the common cold as we all know is viral - rhinoviruses and coronaviruses most commonly, but parainfluenza viruses, RSV, adeonovirus and influenzae A or B can also be the culprits. The symptoms are well known - rhinorrhea, sneezing, nasal obstruction, post nasal drip. Sore throat, hoarseness, cough.
Many patients experience malaise, myalgia and sometimes low grade fever.
Treatment options are numerous because everyone has a remedy. Intranasal Ipratropium Bromide - reduces rhinorrhea and decreases sneezing if started within 1 day of onset of symptoms. Zinc gluconate lozenges . Vitamin C shows variable results in trials but some studies show duration and severity of cold may be decreased. The dose recommended is 2 gm per day while symptoms persist.