Why is it called a cold if you have fever?

It is a misconception that a fever is a symptom of a cold. While fever is a common symptom of many viral and bacterial infections, it is not a defining characteristic of the common cold. In fact, some colds do not cause a fever at all.

The common cold, also known as nasopharyngitis, is a mild respiratory tract infection that is caused by a variety of viruses. Symptoms of the common cold can include a sore throat, runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, and coughing. A fever is not typically associated with a cold, but it can occur in some cases.

There are several viruses that can cause the common cold, including rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, and influenza viruses. These viruses are spread through close contact with an infected person or by touching surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. There is no specific treatment for the common cold, and symptoms typically resolve within a few days to a week.

A fever, on the other hand, is a rise in body temperature that is typically caused by an infection. Fevers can be a symptom of a variety of illnesses, including the common cold, influenza, pneumonia, and other infections. A fever is not a disease itself, but it can be a sign that the body is fighting an infection.

In some cases, a person may have a cold and a fever at the same time. This can occur if the cold is caused by a virus that is also capable of causing a fever, such as the influenza virus. However, it is important to note that not all colds cause a fever.