At Inspire Medical Group, we want to ensure our patients are well-informed about everyday health concerns, including the common cold. The common cold is a viral infection that primarily affects the upper respiratory system, including the nose and throat. It is caused by several different viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most common culprit. Symptoms of the common cold typically include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing, sneezing, mild fatigue, and sometimes a low-grade fever. These symptoms usually develop gradually and can last for a few days to a week.

The common cold is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Although the cold is generally mild and self-limiting, it can lead to complications in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as secondary bacterial infections. There is no cure for the common cold, but symptoms can be managed with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to alleviate discomfort.

Our healthcare providers are here to guide you in managing symptoms safely and can offer advice on the best ways to care for yourself or your family during a cold. If you have questions about cold symptoms or need support managing your health, our team is dedicated to helping you stay healthy year-round.

At Inspire Medical Group, we understand how bothersome the symptoms of the common cold can be. The symptoms of the common cold include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Mild headache
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Low-grade fever (occasionally)
• Watery eyes
• Congestion
• General feeling of being unwell

At Inspire Medical Group, our providers are here to support you. If you have questions about your symptoms or need guidance on when to seek care, your health and peace of mind are our priorities. We are committed to delivering compassionate and thorough care to ensure that you feel confident and informed throughout your healthcare journey. Our team is here to listen, understand, and provide the care you need to feel your best.

We often see patients concerned about symptoms of the common cold, especially during peak seasons. The common cold is caused by several viruses, including:

• Rhinovirus: The most common cause, affecting the upper respiratory tract.

• Coronavirus: Another virus that can lead to cold-like symptoms.

• Adenovirus: Can also cause symptoms similar to the common cold.

• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): A less common cause, particularly in children.

These viruses spread through droplets in the air when an infected person sneezes or coughs, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face. If you are experiencing cold symptoms, Inspire Medical Group is here to help. Our skilled team can provide supportive care, advice on symptom management, and guidance on when it may be necessary to seek further medical attention.

We prioritize the health of our community and aim to provide you with clear, accurate information. The common cold is one of the most frequently encountered illnesses, and it is indeed contagious. It is primarily caused by viruses, such as rhinovirus, that spread easily from person to person. The cold virus is highly contagious and can spread rapidly, especially in crowded settings like schools, offices, and public areas.

The transmission of the common cold typically occurs through respiratory droplets when an infected person sneezes or coughs. These droplets can land on nearby surfaces, where the virus can survive for hours, and when others touch these surfaces, they can unknowingly spread the virus to themselves. Additionally, direct contact, such as shaking hands or close physical interaction, can facilitate the virus’s transmission.

Cold viruses are particularly easy to spread during the initial phase of illness when the viral load is highest, typically within the first few days of symptoms. This is when individuals are most contagious, even before they may realize they are infected. To help prevent the spread of the cold, it’s crucial to practice good hygiene. This includes washing hands regularly, especially after coughing or sneezing, avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick, and using tissues or the elbow to cover sneezes and coughs. Staying home when feeling unwell also helps limit exposure to others. Taking these simple preventive measures can significantly reduce the spread of the cold virus and protect those around you.

At Inspire Medical Group, we offer comprehensive treatment for the common cold to help manage symptoms and promote recovery. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 333 West El Camino, Suite 230, Sunnyvale, CA 94087. We serve patients in the Bay Area from Sunnyvale, CA, San Jose, CA, Los Altos CA, Santa Clara CA to Cupertino CA, and beyond.