Which of the following organs of the respiratory tract is not affected by common cold?

The correct option is C Lungs
Common cold is an infectious disease which affects the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, including the nasal cavity, trachea, larynx and pharynx but does not affect the lungs. It is caused by Rhinovirus.


The invasion of the pathogen triggers inflammatory responses in the body due to which glands in the mucous membranes secrete more fluid. This causes severe nasal congestion and discharge. Other symptoms include sore throat, hoarseness in voice, headache, cough, tiredness etc.

The disease spreads through inhaling the droplets of coughing and sneezing from an infected person or through contact with objects on which the droplets get deposited.


Maintaining personal hygiene and distance from infected persons are different ways by which the spread of the virus can be prevented.

Antibiotics do not help in curing the disease as the common cold is caused by a virus and not a bacteria. Resting, drinking warm fluids to soothe the throat, drinking expectorant medications that help in clearing the mucus and reducing coughs are some of the ways which can give relief from common cold.