The common cold can be described as an infection of the higher reaches of the respiratory tract, or in other words the throat, the nasal passages and the nose. It is interesting to note that there are over two hundred different virus’ that can presently cause the common cold, but the main culprit in adults is the rhinoviruses, of which there are a hundred different strains and are classified as nose virus’.

When an individual becomes affected by a cold, the symptoms usually show up around two days later and these include a sore throat, a runny nose and sneezing. Later symptoms can consist of watery eyes, headache, muscle aches, stuffed nose, and a general feeling of being unwell. The symptoms of a cold can last anywhere from two to seven days but in some cases may even last up to two weeks.

Common Cold

People who have a common cold may find that is accompanied by bronchitis, laryngitis, an ear infection or with those who suffer from asthma, a worsening of the condition. Common cold infections are so prevalent that it is estimated that an adult will suffer between two and five colds each year. Because of this, the condition is the leading cause of people missing work days through illness.

Contrary to belief, colds are actually not very contagious when compared to other infections. Prolonged and close contact is required for the virus to spread and it must get into the nose for there to be infection.

HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is the virus which can lead to AIDS. There are many ways to contract this virus, with the most common being through unprotected sex and the sharing of needles.

People who are infected with HIV may initially not realize there is anything wrong with them as they do not show any symptoms. Nevertheless, some people tend to develop some flu like symptoms which can last for several weeks. Some of these symptoms may include fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, aching muscles and joints, rashes and swollen lymph glands.

HIV Virus Structure

When the virus enters the body, it takes residence in white blood cells that are known as CD4 lymphocytes. The virus takes total control of these cells and starts producing billions of replicas of itself every day.

Once infection of HIV occurs, the body starts to attack the virus and because of this the virus cannot make any copies of itself. This in turn leads to a false sense of wellness as although one would still have HIV, the infected person will begin to look and feel better. Unfortunately, during this period the virus is still attacking the lymph nodes, which are the body’s immune system center.

During the course of ten to fifteen years, the HIV manages to kill so many of the CD4 cells that the body no longer has the ability to fight off infections. Once the CD4 cell count drops below a certain number (200 or lower per mL – the average is 600 to 1000) the sufferer is classed as having AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). Once a person has AIDS, the risk of infection form almost anything can cause fatal complications.

HIV Virus Cycle

Sinusitis affects the cavities inside the cheekbones and forehead.  It usually develops after a cold or flu and clears up on its own.  This is known as acute sinusitis.  Chronic sinusitis however is less normal and lasts much longer.  The sinuses become swollen and other symptoms include pain over the area as well as a high temperature and a blocked or runny nose. As well as having pain in the sinuses, there are other symptoms of sinusitis which may be present including headache, cough, tiredness or a feeling of unwell. Painkillers can be used to treat the symptoms or a doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

Viruses that cause the cold or influenza virus can spread to the sinuses causing sinusitis. It can also be caused by a bacterial infection. There are also several factors which can cause a person to be more susceptible to sinusitis such as, asthma or hay fever, smoking, weakened immune system, allergies, facial surgery, pregnancy, or an infected tooth.

Sinusitis

Most cases of sinusitis will clear up by itself but antibiotics may be needed for more severe cases.  Painkillers can help to ease the pain associated with sinusitis.  Nasal sprays can help to unblock the nose and help make breathing easier but should not be used for more than seven days at a time.

In order to prevent sinusitis there are a number of things that can be done including, getting plenty of exercise, eating a well balanced diet with lots of fruit and vegetables, drinking plenty of water, keeping stress levels to a minimum and even having a flu vaccination annually.