Common Cold

The common cold is a very common viral infection of your nose and throat. It is caused by a variety of different viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most frequent culprit. Unlike the flu, cold symptoms appear gradually and tend to be less severe. 

Signs and symptoms

Cold symptoms usually appear one to three days after you are exposed to the virus. They generally peak within a few days and resolve in about a week to 10 days, though a cough can linger for up to a few weeks, 4-6 weeks, sometimes 2 months. 

The most common symptoms include: 

  • Runny or stuffy nose: Your nasal discharge may start out watery and clear, then become thicker and yellow or green, which is normal.

  • Sore or scratchy throat: Often one of the first signs of a cold.

  • Cough: Usually mild, and may last longer than other symptoms.

  • Sneezing: Another classic symptom of a cold.

  • Mild headache or body aches: More severe aches are more indicative of the flu.

  • Low-grade fever: Uncommon in adults but can occur in infants and young children.

  • General fatigue or feeling unwell. 

Diagnosis

In most cases, a doctor can diagnose a common cold based on your symptoms alone. You usually do not need to see a doctor unless your symptoms are severe, you are an infant, or the illness lasts longer than usual. A physical exam may include looking in your throat, checking for nasal congestion, and listening to your lungs. 

Additional tests, such as a nasal swab, might be performed if a healthcare provider suspects you have a more severe illness like the flu or COVID-19. 

Treatment

There is no cure for the common cold, but you can manage the symptoms while your body fights off the virus. Since colds are caused by viruses, antibiotics are not effective and should not be used. 

At-home care and remedies:

  • Rest: Getting plenty of rest helps your body heal.

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids like water, juice, and broth to stay hydrated and help loosen congestion.

  • Humidifier or steam: A cool-mist humidifier or inhaling steam from a hot shower can soothe irritated airways and relieve stuffiness.

  • Sore throat relief: Gargle with warm salt water or use throat lozenges.

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help with fever, headaches, and aches. Aspirin should not be given to children or teenagers due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.

  • Saline nasal spray: Saline sprays can help moisten nasal passages and loosen mucus, which can be especially helpful for infants. 

Important considerations:

  • Cold and cough medicines: Over-the-counter cold and cough medicines are not recommended for children under age 4 and have side effects in adults. They do not prevent or shorten the duration of a cold.

  • When to see a doctor: You should see a healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen or do not improve after 7 to 10 days, you develop a high fever of 100.4°F or more, have severe pain, or experience shortness of breath. 

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