Common Cold
A common cold is a type of viral infection of your throat (upper respiratory tract) and nose, which is usually harmless but may not feel that way. Multiple viruses can cause a common cold. Adults can expect to develop up to colds yearly, whereas young children and infants may develop more frequently.
Common cold symptoms
Common cold symptoms develop gradually and can include:
- Runny or blocked nose
- Sore throat
- Headaches
- Muscle aches
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- High temperature
- Pressure in your face and ears
- Loss of smell and taste
Common cold self-preventions and treatments
- Rest and sleep well
- Stay hydrated, drink a lot of water
- Gargle salt water to soothe the sore throat – Not suitable for children
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water
- Don’t share household items or towels with someone who has a cold
- Don’t touch your nose or eyes if you have come into contact with the virus
- Stay active and healthy
Consult a doctor if:
- You have no improvement in symptoms after three weeks
- Your symptoms get suddenly worsen
- You feel hot and shivery with a very high temperature
- You feel short of breath
- You develop chest pain
- You have a long-term condition like diabetes, lung, kidney, or a heart condition
- You have a weakened immune system
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022