Common Cold: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

A common cold is one of the most frequent illnesses we experience, affecting people of all ages. While colds can vary in severity, they're typically mild and rarely pose any serious health risks. In most cases, colds clear up within a week or two and can be treated at home with simple remedies and over-the-counter medications.

What are the symptoms of a cold?

Symptoms are usually mild, allowing you to continue with your daily activities, including going to work.

In some cases, more severe symptoms such as fever, headache, and muscle aches may develop. However, these are more commonly associated with the flu rather than a cold.

The symptoms of a cold tend to develop gradually and may include:

  • Blocked or runny nose.
  • Sore throat.
  • Sneezing.
  • Coughing.

 

Man wrapped in a duvet blowing his nose with a tissue, feeling unwell

Cold vs flu: what's the difference?

Although cold and flu symptoms are similar, the flu is generally more serious and can lead to more severe symptoms.

Here's a comparison of the two:

Symptom

Common cold

Flu

Onset

Gradual

Sudden and intense

Main symptoms

Sneezing, sore throat, coughing, runny nose

Fever, body aches, extreme fatigue

Severity

Mild — you can continue normal activities

Severe — can leave you bedridden

How do you catch a cold?

Colds are caused by viral infections and spread through droplets released into the air when someone with the virus coughs or sneezes. If these droplets come into contact with your eyes, nose, or mouth, you can catch the virus.

While winter weather doesn't directly cause colds, it does increase the likelihood of catching one. This is partially due to people spending more time indoors, where close contact makes it easier for viruses to spread, as well as some viruses thriving in cold conditions.

To reduce your chances of catching a cold, follow these simple precautions:

  • Wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water.
  • Avoid sharing cups or towels with someone who has a cold.
  • Stay clear of people showing cold symptoms.

When should I see a doctor about a cold?

Most of the time, you don't need to see a healthcare professional for a cold. Colds are usually mild and resolve on their own within a week or two. There's also no prescription treatment for colds, as antibiotics don't work for viral infections.

However, if your symptoms are still present after two weeks, it's worth keeping an eye on things, and you should make an appointment with a doctor or an Advanced Clinical Practitioner if:

  • Your symptoms persist for more than three weeks.
  • Your symptoms worsen significantly.
  • You have a high fever or feel shivery.
  • You experience difficulty breathing.
  • You develop chest pain.
  • You have a weakened immune system or long-term health conditions.
Woman in a blue jumper taking a pill while sitting on a sofa

How can I treat cold symptoms?

The best way to recover from a cold is to rest, stay warm, and drink plenty of fluids. Over-the-counter medications like painkillers (e.g. paracetamol or ibuprofen) and decongestants can help alleviate symptoms. Other remedies like gargling with salt water or using vapour rubs to clear a blocked nose can provide additional relief.

Key tips for cold care:

  • Get plenty of rest.

  • Keep hydrated by drinking water, herbal teas, or clear soups.

  • Use pain relief medication (following the correct dosage).

  • Avoid over-the-counter combination products that contain multiple painkillers, to prevent accidental overdose.

Frequently asked questions

Most colds clear up within a week to two weeks. If symptoms are still present after three weeks, or are getting worse rather than better, it's worth speaking to a doctor.

No. Colds are caused by viruses, and antibiotics only work against bacterial infections. Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter symptom relief are the recommended approach.

Colds tend to develop gradually with milder symptoms like a runny nose and sore throat, while flu comes on suddenly with fever, body aches, and extreme fatigue that can leave you bedridden.

There's no way to cure a cold faster, since it needs to run its course, but resting, staying hydrated, and managing symptoms with appropriate medication can help you feel more comfortable while it clears.

You're generally most contagious in the first few days of symptoms, though this can vary from person to person. Good hand hygiene and avoiding sharing cups or towels can help reduce spread.

See a UK GP today

Skip the wait — book an online appointment and get expert advice from a UK-registered clinician in as little as 2 hours. 

Related Topics