Cold or Catarrh in the Elderly: Prevention and Treatment

The cold, also known as catarrh, is a common viral infection that primarily affects the upper respiratory tract, including the nose and throat. Although it can happen to anyone, older adults tend to be more susceptible to colds due to age-related changes in their immune systems.

So, below we will explain what is a cold, its symptoms, duration in the elderly, flu vaccination in case of a cold, preventive measures, relief methods, treatment and how long a cold lasts without fever.

What is a cold or catarrh?

cold is a Viral infection It mainly affects the nose, throat and upper respiratory tract. It is caused by different types of viruses, the most common being rhinovirus, spread easily By contact with an infected person or contaminated surface.

Cold symptoms in the elderly

this Cold symptoms may be different in older adultsbut generally includes:

• Nasal congestion (rhinorrhea) or mucus discharge from the nose
• runny nose
• sore throat
• cough
• sneeze
• fatigue
• muscle and body pain
• plaque in throat

But what is throat plaque?

What specifically does plaque in the throat refer to? Throat inflammation caused by viruses or viruses accumulation of pus This may indicate a bacterial infection, such as tonsillitis. Although colds are caused by viruses rather than bacteria, plaque can appear due to: Stimulate Due to frequent coughing and production booger.

Duration of colds in the elderly

The duration of colds in older adults may vary, but generally Lasts 7 to 10 days.However, for some older adults, especially those with weakened immune systems, the cold Can last longer and be complicated by secondary infectionssuch as bronchitis or pneumonia.

Get the flu vaccine when you have a cold

In view of this problem Not recommended Get a flu shot for anyone who currently has a cold.preferably Wait until the injured person fully recovers

before getting the vaccine, because getting the vaccine while in this state could interfere with her body’s immune response and make the vaccine less effective.

Measures for preventing colds in the elderly

It is important for the elderly to prevent colds follow precautionsas:

• wash hands often
• Avoid close contact with sick people
• Stay away from smoky or polluted environments
• Get a flu shot to prevent serious complications from a cold

Home remedies to relieve colds in the elderly

To relieve cold symptoms in older adults, there are some home remedies you can take, such as:

• Get enough rest
• drink hot liquids, such as soup or tea
• Use a humidifier to keep the air moist
• Rinse your mouth with warm water and salt to relieve sore throat

Treatment of colds in the elderly

Treatment of colds in the elderly usually focuses on Relieve symptoms and prevent complications. In some cases it may be necessary to resort to antiviral drugs or antibiotics If bacterial complications occur.

However, the important thing is Consult your doctor before starting any treatmentespecially older adults with pre-existing medical conditions.

Duration of cold without fever

The duration of a cold without fever may vary, but generally Lasts 5 to 7 days.

However, some symptoms, such as coughing, may persist for weeks after the virus is gone.

Therefore, if symptoms persist More than 10 days or getting worsethis is important Consult a doctor.

That said, a cold or catarrh in older people may be more severe and last longer than in other age groups, so It is important to take precautions and seek appropriate treatment Relieve symptoms and prevent complications such as Consult a health professional to obtain correct diagnosis and treatment.