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Jan 19, 2009 10:43 pm US/Central
Good Question: Why Do Some Colds Last So Long?
(WCCO)
The common cold is the most common illness people face. On average, children get six to 10 colds a year. Adults can expect to battle two to four. Colds are caused by a virus that our immune system needs time to fight off. But why do some colds seem to hang on forever?
The common cold should usually be gone in seven to 10 days.
"I know if it's been about 14 days with a cold and I'm still feeling not greater, or it's getting worse, then it's time to go see the doctor," said cold sufferer Kathy Brumbaugh.
Up to four times a year, what starts as a cold for Brumbaugh, sets up camp in her sinuses and tries to stay forever. The condition is called "sinusitis."
"It tends to be a lot of post-nasal drip, a lot of facial pain, teeth pain, so (like) a cold getting worse," she explained.
As it turns out, a cold can assault the immune system to the point that another infection sees an opportunity to settle in.
"The most common one, people talk about 'walking pneumonia' ... really common in 2- to 5-year-olds. They just can't seem to kick that cough," said family Dr. Melissa Mark, a family physician at Fairview Uptown Clinic.
More than 200 viruses are to blame for what is called a cold. However, Mark said bacteria can cause pneumonia and sinusitis and it may take antibiotics to beat them.
"If you're running a fever that's over 101 for a good two to three days in a row, I think I would call a physician and see what's going on. If everybody around you says you sound absolutely awful and you've been this way for a month, please go see somebody I would listen to them and go in," said Mark.
So what should people do to reduce their risk of getting a cold in the first place?
"Wash your hands. Wash your hands. Wash your hands. If you're going to cough or sneeze, do the elbow trick. Cough into your elbow," suggests Mark.
Sleep is at the top of Mark's list for a stronger immune system. Healthy eating, especially Vitamin C rich foods, and good hygiene, all boost your defenses.
Mark said she doesn't endorse supplements. However, good old Vitamin C may help boost your immune system against catching a cold.
A recent study found people taking ginseng had half as many colds, and their colds were less severe.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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