12342 Common Cold

Overview

The common cold is a mild viral infection of the nose, throat, and airways. It usually clears up on its own within a week or two.

Very common. In fact, adults may catch a cold two to three times a year, and children even more often.

Anyone can catch a cold, but it is most common in young children, people with weakened immune systems, and people who smoke.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Runny or blocked nose
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Sneezing
• Mild fever and headache
• Tiredness and general achiness

Symptoms in children

• Fussiness and irritability
• Reduced appetite
• More noticeable fever
• Trouble sleeping

Symptoms in older adults

• Lower-grade fever or none
• More fatigue and weakness
• Increased risk of chest infection
• Slower recovery

Causes

Main causes

• Many different viruses can cause a cold, with rhinoviruses being the most common.
• The virus spreads through tiny droplets in the air when someone infected coughs or sneezes.
• You can also get infected by touching your eyes, nose, or mouth after touching surfaces with the virus on them.

Risk factors

• Being in close contact with someone who has a cold
• Having a weakened immune system
• Smoking or being around secondhand smoke
• Being a young child or an older adult
• Stress and lack of sleep

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have trouble breathing or chest pain.
• You develop a very high fever.
• Your symptoms get much worse instead of better.
• You have a chronic health condition like asthma or heart disease and your symptoms become severe.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Your symptoms last longer than 10 days.
• You have a fever lasting more than three days.
• You keep getting colds and are worried about them.
• You need a note for work or school.

Diagnosis

A doctor usually diagnoses a cold by asking about your symptoms and doing a simple physical exam. They will check your temperature, look at your throat and ears, and listen to your breathing.

Tests that may be done

• Most of the time, no tests are needed.
• If your doctor suspects another infection, such as the flu or COVID-19, they may use a swab from your nose or throat.
• Blood tests are rarely needed.

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will reassure you that a cold is a viral infection and that antibiotics will not help. They will give you advice on how to manage your symptoms and tell you when to check back if you do not improve.

Treatment

There is no cure for the common cold. Treatment is about easing your symptoms and supporting your body while the immune system fights the virus. Most improvement happens within a few days, though a cough may last longer.

Self-care at home

• Rest as much as you can and stay home if you feel unwell.
• Drink plenty of fluids like water, warm tea, or clear soup to stay hydrated.
• Use steam inhalation from a bowl of hot water or a warm shower to help clear a blocked nose.
• Gargle with warm salt water to soothe a sore throat.
• Use tissues to blow your nose and throw them away after use.
• Ask your pharmacist about over-the-counter pain and fever relief medicines.

Medical treatments

Your pharmacist or doctor may suggest over-the-counter products for congestion, cough, or pain. Always follow the instructions on the label and ask for advice if you take other medicines or have a health condition. Remember, antibiotics do not work for a viral cold.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat a common cold.

Living with this condition

A cold can make you feel tired and uncomfortable. Try to slow down, rest, and let your body recover. It is usually fine to return to work or school once you feel better and have not had a fever for 24 hours.

Lifestyle tips

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces like door handles and phones.
• Get enough sleep to support your recovery.
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.

Diet and exercise

Eat light, nourishing meals to keep your strength up. Continue drinking fluids even if your appetite is low. Gentle walking is fine if you feel like it, but avoid strenuous exercise until you are fully better.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A cold can be frustrating, especially if it interrupts your sleep or daily routine. Feeling low, irritated, or anxious during an illness is understandable. If these feelings persist or worry you, talk to your healthcare provider or someone you trust.

Prevention

While it is not possible to completely avoid colds, you can reduce your chances by practicing good hygiene, keeping your immune system strong, and avoiding close contact with people who are unwell.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for the common cold. However, getting your seasonal flu vaccine can help prevent the flu, which can have similar symptoms. Talk to your healthcare provider about recommended vaccines for your age and health condition.

Screening programmes

There is no screening test for the common cold. Focus on prevention and seeking care when you have symptoms that concern you.

Complications

If left untreated

• Middle ear infection, especially in children
• Sinus infection or sinusitis
• Chest infection, such as bronchitis or pneumonia
• Worsening of asthma, COPD, or other long-term conditions

Long-term outlook

The great news is that most colds resolve on their own within 7 to 10 days. Some people may have a cough for up to three weeks, but this is normal. Your body’s immune system is well equipped to fight off the virus, and simple self-care can make you comfortable while you recover.

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