Common colds. Causes, potential cures, and treatment

Colds are a common clinical condition, caused by a variety of pathogens. This article reviews the etiology of the cold, proposed cures, symptomatic relief, method of transmission, and advice for patients. Transmission through indirect contact, or self-inoculation, seems more common than was once thought. Experimental antiviral agents hold some promise; in the meantime, symptomatic relief is available.