Külmetamist

Külmetamist, commonly referred to as the common cold, is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. It is characterized by a variety of symptoms affecting the nose, throat, and sinuses. The most frequent causative agents are rhinoviruses, though other viruses can also be responsible. Transmission typically occurs through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching one's face.

Symptoms usually appear one to three days after exposure to the virus and can include a runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, cough, sneezing, mild body aches, and sometimes a low-grade fever. While there is no cure for the common cold, treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms and allowing the body's immune system to fight off the infection. Rest, adequate fluid intake, and over-the-counter medications to manage pain, fever, and congestion are common recommendations. Complications are rare but can include sinus infections or ear infections. The duration of a cold typically ranges from a few days to a week or two. Prevention strategies include frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and not touching the face with unwashed hands.