Typically, the individual with a cold will experience general malaise, fever, headache, and upper respiratory tract congestion. Initially, there is usually a watery nasal discharge and sneezing, followed by thicker secretions containing mucus, white blood cells, and dead organisms. The throat may be red, sore and quite dry. The common cold typically lasts anywhere from four to ten days.

Causes

We are all constantly exposed to many of these viruses, yet the majority of us experience the discomfort of a cold once or twice a year at the most. This scenario suggests that a decrease in resistance of immune function is the major factor in catching a cold.

Natural Medicines

echinacea purpurea

¹ The Pill Book Guide to Natural Medicines, Michael Murray N.D., 2002