Overview
The common cold is a mild viral infection of the nose and throat. It clears on its own within about a week and does not need antibiotics. Frequent colds are common in children and tend to circulate more in the colder months.
Symptoms
- Runny or blocked nose
- Sneezing
- Sore or scratchy throat
- Mild cough
- Mild headache
- Low-grade fever (more common in children)
Causes & risk factors
- Viruses spread by droplets and contaminated hands
- Close contact with someone who has a cold
- Dry or dusty air irritating the nose and throat
Treatment & self-care
Rest, warm fluids and simple remedies such as steam inhalation and saline nose drops relieve symptoms while the body clears the virus. Paracetamol-type relief helps aches and fever. Antibiotics do not work for colds; see a clinician only if symptoms persist or worsen.
See a doctor urgently if
- Symptoms lasting beyond 10 days or getting worse after a week
- High fever or severe facial pain
- Ear pain, especially in a child
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing