Overview
The common cold is a mild, self-limited viral infection of the nose and throat, most often caused by rhinoviruses, and is one of the most frequently occurring human illnesses.
Disease Summary
- Category
- Infectious Disease
- Cause
- Various respiratory viruses, most commonly rhinoviruses
- Transmission
- Spreads through the air and close contact, including breathing in droplets from coughs or sneezes, or touching contaminated surfaces
- Body System
- Respiratory System
- Preventable
- Yes
- Curable
- Yes
Symptoms
Common Symptoms
Cold symptoms usually develop gradually over a day or two.
Runny or Stuffy Nose
One of the earliest and most common symptoms of a cold.
Sore Throat
Often one of the first symptoms to appear.
Cough
A cough often develops as the cold progresses and can persist after other symptoms improve.
Sneezing
Frequent sneezing is common, especially in the first few days.
Danger Signs
Seek medical attention if any of the following occur.
High Fever
A high fever, especially in infants or young children, needs medical evaluation.
Difficulty Breathing
Shortness of breath is not typical of a common cold and needs urgent assessment.
Symptoms Lasting More Than 10 Days
Prolonged symptoms may indicate a secondary infection, such as a sinus or ear infection.
Symptoms That Improve Then Worsen
May indicate a bacterial infection developing on top of the cold.
Diagnosis
Clinical Assessment
Diagnosis is based on the typical pattern of symptoms and does not usually require testing.
Symptom Review
Reviewing the type and progression of symptoms helps distinguish a cold from flu or other illnesses.
Testing for Other Illnesses
Testing may be used if flu or COVID-19 is suspected, particularly in people at higher risk of severe illness.
Laboratory Tests
Rapid Antigen Testing
Used to rule out flu or COVID-19 rather than to confirm a cold.
RT-PCR Testing
A more sensitive test used to identify the specific virus when needed.
Physical Examination
Helps rule out complications like an ear infection or pneumonia.
Treatment
Symptom Relief
Over-the-counter medications, such as decongestants and pain relievers, can help ease symptoms while the body fights the virus.
Rest and Hydration
Getting enough rest and fluids supports recovery and helps the immune system fight the infection.
Prevention
Wash hands frequently
Regular handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent catching or spreading a cold.
Avoid close contact with sick people
Limiting close contact with people who have cold symptoms reduces the risk of infection.
Avoid touching your face
Reduces the chance of introducing viruses into the nose, eyes, or mouth.
Clean frequently touched surfaces
Cleaning doorknobs, phones, and other shared surfaces can reduce the spread of cold viruses.
Risk Factors
High Risk
These factors substantially increase the likelihood of catching a cold.
- Young children, particularly those under 6
- Close contact with someone who has a cold
- Weakened immune system
Increased Risk
These factors are associated with a moderately higher risk of catching a cold.
- Attending school or childcare
- Crowded living or working environments
- Seasonal changes, particularly fall and winter
Additional Contributing Factors
Other factors linked with an increased likelihood of catching a cold.
- Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
- Lack of sleep
- Chronic stress
Complications
Sinus Infection
A cold can occasionally lead to a secondary bacterial sinus infection.
Ear Infection
Especially common in children, when fluid buildup from a cold leads to a middle ear infection.
Worsening of Asthma
A cold can trigger asthma flare-ups in people who have the condition.
When to Seek Medical Care
Fever in an Infant Under 3 Months
Any fever in a very young infant needs prompt medical evaluation.
Difficulty Breathing
Shortness of breath is not typical of a cold and needs urgent assessment.
Symptoms Lasting More Than 10 Days
May indicate a secondary infection that needs treatment.
Ear Pain or Severe Sinus Pain
May indicate a complication requiring medical attention.
Prognosis
Excellent, Self-limited Illness
Most colds resolve completely within a week to ten days without any lasting effects.
Cough May Linger
A cough can sometimes persist for a few weeks after other symptoms have resolved.
Frequent But Rarely Serious
Healthy adults typically get two or three colds a year, and serious complications are uncommon.
Differential Diagnosis
Influenza
Usually causes more sudden and severe symptoms, particularly fever and body aches, compared to a cold.
COVID-19
Can cause similar symptoms to a cold but may require specific testing to distinguish, especially in people at higher risk of severe illness.
Allergic Rhinitis
Causes similar nasal symptoms but is triggered by allergens rather than infection, and typically lacks fever.
Sinusitis
Can develop as a complication of a cold or occur independently, causing facial pain and pressure.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
CDC guidance on the causes, symptoms, and spread of the common cold.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Treatment
CDC guidance on managing common cold symptoms.
Mayo Clinic
Patient-focused overview of common cold symptoms and causes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can antibiotics cure a cold?
No. Colds are caused by viruses, and antibiotics only work against bacteria; they won’t help you feel better and can cause side effects.
How long does a cold usually last?
Most colds resolve within a week to ten days, though a cough can sometimes linger longer.
Is the common cold the same as the flu?
No. Flu symptoms usually come on more suddenly and are more severe, particularly fever and body aches, compared to a cold.
Can you get a cold more than once a year?
Yes. Because there are over 200 different viruses that can cause colds, healthy adults typically get two or three colds a year.