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If your cold
symptoms
get worse instead
of better, call your
primary care doctor
or visit
frhs.orgto
search for a primary
care doctor near
you.
THE
COLD
TRUTH
4 facts
for you
Sources: American Lung Association; National Institute of Allergy
and Infectious Diseases; UpToDate
ANSWER:
False. Over-the-counter medicines can help you manage
symptoms for the duration of your illness. But that cold will last about one
to two weeks, no matter what medicines you take. It just has to run its
course. Other ways to feel better in the meantime:
●
Get plenty of rest.
●
Drink lots of fluids.
●
Gargle with warm salt water to soothe a sore throat.
●
Use petroleum jelly to relieve a sore, raw nose.
ANSWER:
True. Some cold-causing viruses can live for at least two hours
on the skin and on surfaces—such as doorknobs and stair rails. If you
shake hands with an infected person—or touch an infected surface—and
then touch your nose or eyes, the virus can enter your body and increase
your risk of getting a cold. You can lower that risk by frequently wash-
ing your hands with soap and water, which helps stop the spread of
viruses.
HOW MUCH
do you know about one of the most common illnesses
around? Take this true-or-false quiz to test your know-how about colds.
2
TRUE OR FALSE:
Taking decongestants or anti-
histamines will help you get over a cold more quickly.
ANSWER:
True. This may be because cold weather keeps people
indoors, which increases the chance that you’ll come into contact with
someone who has a cold and can spread it to you.
ANSWER:
False. Colds are actually caused by viruses—in fact, more than
200 types of viruses can trigger symptoms such as sniffling, sneezing and
coughing. And because colds are not caused by bacteria, taking antibiot-
ics won’t cure a cold. The only time you might need an antibiotic is when a
cold leads to complications, such as an ear or sinus infection.
1
TRUE OR FALSE:
Colds are caused by bacteria.
3
TRUE OR FALSE:
Most colds occur in the
fall and winter months.
4
TRUE OR FALSE:
Washing your hands is one of the
most effective ways to keep colds from spreading.
6 FAITH REGIONAL
HEALTH SERVICES