What is the incubation period for a cold?
The incubation period of a cold is the time between the infection, i.e. the penetration of the pathogens into the body, and the appearance of the first symptoms. The incubation period is due to the fact that the pathogens must first multiply before they spread in the body and lead to the typical symptoms. The length of the incubation period for a cold can vary greatly and depends on the type of pathogen (bacteria or virus).
What are the first signs of symptoms?
The first signs of a cold after the incubation period typically include upper respiratory symptoms. The mucous membranes of the nose and throat swell and become inflamed, resulting in a blocked nose, frequent sneezing and a scratchy throat. There is also pain when swallowing and difficulty swallowing.
The symptoms quickly worsen and often turn into a cold (rhinitis) and a painful pharyngitis (inflammation of the throat). Further sympotms at a glance: As the cold progresses, those affected feel groggy, weak and tired. Due to the swollen nasal mucous membranes, the pressure conditions in the skull change and headaches occur. In addition, a slightly elevated body temperature and aching limbs can occur. More information about the symptoms can be found here: Symptoms of an eruption
- Sniffles
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Pharyngitis
- Inflammation in the throat
- Swallowing difficulties
- Hoarseness
How long is the incubation period for viral and bacterial infections?
Most colds or flu-like infections are caused by viruses (especially rhino or adenovirus). The viruses are transmitted to other people by droplet infection and enter the body via small drops of saliva that are produced when coughing or sneezing. The viruses first colonize the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, multiply there and then spread further through the body.
Normally, the incubation period for a conventional viral cold is relatively short and lasts about one day. Depending on the pathogen, however, incubation periods of two to seven days can also occur. Less frequently, colds are caused by bacteria. The bacteria enter the body via an entry port, usually the nose or throat, and multiply. Even with a bacterial cold, the incubation period depends on the species of bacteria and is usually a few days.
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