What are the symptoms of bacterial cold?

Bacterial cold symptoms include prominent fever, cough with purulent sputum, sore and swollen throat, nasal congestion with yellow discharge, and marked systemic discomfort. Symptoms are generally more severe and last longer compared to viral colds. If fever persists beyond three days, symptoms worsen, or difficulty breathing occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Prominent fever: Typically moderate to high-grade, with body temperature often reaching 38.5°C or higher. The fever lasts longer and may be accompanied by chills. Common antipyretic medications may provide limited relief; targeted anti-infective treatment is usually required.

2. Cough with purulent sputum: Coughing is pronounced, producing thick yellow or green pus-like sputum that is difficult to expel—this is a typical sign of respiratory inflammation caused by bacterial infection.

3. Sore and swollen throat: Noticeable congestion and swelling in the throat, with increased pain during swallowing. Some patients may develop enlarged tonsils, sometimes accompanied by pus-like secretions.

4. Nasal congestion with yellow discharge: Increased nasal secretions that are thick and yellow or yellow-green in color. Nasal congestion is severe, potentially affecting breathing and sleep, and tends to persist for an extended period.

5. Marked systemic discomfort: Accompanied by significant headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Patients often feel unwell, and in severe cases, daily activities may be impaired.

Treatment should involve antibiotics selected under a doctor’s guidance based on sensitivity testing, avoiding misuse. Supportive care includes adequate rest, drinking plenty of warm water to help loosen mucus, maintaining a light and easily digestible diet, ensuring good indoor ventilation, and minimizing intake of spicy or irritating foods.