Understanding the Problem of Cold

Cold is a type of allergy in which water or phlegm is discharged from the nose. Cold itself is not an ailment but it is an indication that there is some sought of allergy or infection in the respiratory tract and if it is left untreated it can cause pneumonia and can also affect upper respiratory system infection. By and large, cold develops in a person in two possible ways. Whenever, the bacteria or virus present in the air enters the body through breathing then allergy develops. As a result, watery or fibrous secretion start coming out of the nose.

Our throat has two types of bacteria, some of them are good and some of them are bad. At times, fluctuation in weather, eating hot & cold food items, sudden travel from a hot place to a cooler one and vice-versa, drinking too much cold water or drenching in rain pushes the growth of bad bacteria which in turn causes infection. It has been well known fact that people having low immunity level are prone towards catching cold in the above mentioned conditions. Besides that children, old people, patients of diabetes, high blood pressure, tuberculosis, asthma, AIDS, hepatitis, anaemia and malnutrition are more vulnerable in developing cold. Cold can also caused by pollution.

What are its symptoms?

The discharge of thin and white fluid is an indication of very light and common cold. If it is thicker, then there is a possibility of a severe infection. Consult the doctor immediately. If your nose is blocked then there is a possibility of viral or bacterial infection. Viral infection can be treated by taking steam and anti-viral medicines. White phlegm is a sign of allergy which often happens in normal cold & cough conditions whereas green and yellow coloured phlegm is an indication of serious infection. If cold has persisted for more than five days or you have also developed cough along with body ache, fever then it is warning sign for some serious trouble. Coming of blood along with cough is dangerous and is a certain symptom of tuberculosis.

Cold caused by allergy develops due to several factors, such as, allergic dust, sensitivity to soap, talcum powder and pollution. Its symptoms are sneezing, watery discharge from nose & eyes and irritation in throat. There are several prescribed medicines in different medicinal systems.