About the Common Cold: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

What Is a Common Cold?

The common cold is a viral infection that primarily affects the upper respiratory tract, including the nose and throat. It is one of the most frequently occurring illnesses, especially during the colder months. It’s caused by a variety of viruses (over 200!), with rhinovirus being the most common culprit.¹ When you catch a cold, your immune system responds to the virus by producing symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, coughing, and a sore throat.

How Do We Get Cold Symptoms?

When a cold virus enters your body, it typically attaches to cells in the lining of your nose or throat. Your immune system then launches an attack against the virus, leading to inflammation and the production of mucus. This immune response is what causes the familiar symptoms of a cold. The virus can also spread to other parts of the respiratory system, such as the sinuses and the lungs, causing additional discomfort.²

How Long Does a Cold Last?

A common cold usually lasts about 7–10 days, though some symptoms may persist for up to two weeks, especially in children. The initial symptoms often appear within 1–3 days after exposure to the virus.³ The first few days are typically the most uncomfortable, with symptoms gradually improving over the following week.

How Contagious Is a Common Cold?

Being a highly contagious virus, the common cold can spread easily from person to person. People often wonder how long a cold is contagious for to understand when they can get back to work or school. It is most contagious during the first 2–3 days of the illness, but you can still spread the virus for up to two weeks.

Colds are typically transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. You can also catch a cold by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching your face, particularly your nose or mouth.⁴

Common Cold Symptoms

The common cold causes a range of symptoms that can vary in intensity. Understanding the symptoms of a cold and how they progress over time can help you manage the illness more effectively. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the symptoms and their stages, along with comparisons to allergies, the flu, and sinus infections.

Stages of a Cold^1,5

Stage 1: Days 1–3

Sore throat: This is often the first symptom to appear and can be quite uncomfortable.

Runny nose: Mucus production starts.

Fatigue: You might feel more tired than usual and have less energy.

Sneezing: Frequent sneezing is a common response to the virus.

Mild headache: Some people experience a mild headache during this stage.

Low-grade fever: Especially in children, a slight fever may develop.

Stage 2: Days 4–7

Stuffy nose: Nasal congestion becomes more pronounced, making it harder to breathe.

Coughing: A persistent dry cough may develop.

Body aches: Muscle aches and pains may become more noticeable.

Increased fatigue: You might feel more tired and weak.

Loss of appetite: You might not feel like eating as much.

Chest congestion: Coughing can bring up mucus and progress from a dry cough to a wet cough.

Stage 3: Days 8–10

Residual symptoms: Symptoms like a runny nose, cough, and fatigue may linger but gradually improve.

Nasal discharge: The mucus may become thicker and change color, indicating the body is fighting off the infection.

Improved energy levels: You should start to feel more energetic and less fatigued.

Reduced congestion: Both nasal and chest congestion should begin to subside.

Allergies vs. Cold Symptoms

Allergies and the common cold can have similar symptoms, making it difficult to distinguish between the two. Here’s a comparison to help you identify which one you might be dealing with:⁶

Sore throat:
More common in colds but can occur in allergies due to postnasal drip.

Runny or stuffy nose:
Both conditions can cause nasal congestion, but allergy-related mucus is usually clear and watery, while cold mucus can be thicker and change color.

Coughing:
More common in colds, but allergies can sometimes also cause a cough due to postnasal drip.

Sneezing:
Sneezing is common in both, but allergies often cause more intense and frequent sneezing.

Body aches:
Rare in allergies, but common in colds.

Fatigue:
More common in colds.

Headaches:
More common in colds but can occur in allergies because of sinus congestion or a stuffy nose.

Fever:
Not present in allergies, but common in colds, especially in children.

Itchy eyes:
Common in allergies, but not a symptom of colds.

Itchy nose or throat:
Common in allergies and can occur in colds.

Duration:
Allergies can last for weeks or months, while colds usually last 7–10 days.

For more information, you can refer to our "Is It a Cold or Allergies" page.

Cold vs. Flu Symptoms

The flu (influenza) and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses and can have distinct symptoms:⁷

Sore throat:
Common in both, but usually more severe in the flu.

Runny or stuffy nose:
More common in colds but can occur in the flu.

Coughing:
Both conditions can cause coughing, but the flu often leads to a more severe, hacking cough.

Sneezing:
More common in colds.

Body aches:
Severe in the flu, mild to moderate in colds.

Fatigue:
Severe in the flu, moderate in colds.

Headaches:
Severe in the flu, mild to moderate in colds.

Fever:
High fever (100°F to 102°F or higher) is common in the flu, but rare in colds.

Chills:
Common in the flu, rare in colds.

Nausea and vomiting:
More common in the flu, especially in children.

Duration:
The flu can last for 1–2 weeks, while a cold usually lasts 7–10 days.

Sinus Infection vs. Cold

A sinus infection (sinusitis) and the common cold can share some symptoms, but a sinus infection is often more severe and can last longer:⁸

Sore throat:
Common in both, but usually more severe in sinus infections.

Runny or stuffy nose:
Both conditions can cause nasal congestion, but sinus infections often lead to thicker, colored mucus.

Coughing:
Common in both, but sinus infections can cause a more persistent cough.

Sneezing:
More common in colds.

Body aches:
Rare in sinus infections, but common in colds.

Fatigue:
Common in both, but usually more severe in sinus infections.

Headaches:
More common and severe in sinus infections, often localized to the forehead, cheeks, or around the eyes.

Fever:
Rare in sinus infections, more common in colds.

Facial pain or pressure:
Common in sinus infections, especially when bending forward or lying down.

Toothache:
Can occur in sinus infections due to pressure in the sinuses but is rarer in colds.

Duration:
Sinus infections can last for several weeks, while colds usually last 7–10 days.

Causes of a Common Cold

Is a Common Cold Viral?

Yes, a common cold is viral. That’s what causes a cold — various viruses, with the rhinovirus being the most frequent culprit. Other viruses that can cause colds include respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and parainfluenza virus.^3,13

What Is Rhinovirus? ^5,9

Rhinovirus is most often the virus responsible for the common cold. It is highly contagious and can spread easily through the air and close personal contact.

Similar to other common cold viruses, rhinoviruses are primarily transmitted through:

• Airborne droplets: When an infected person coughs or sneezes, they release tiny droplets containing the virus into the air.

• Direct contact: Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with the virus and then touching your face, particularly your mouth, nose, or eyes.

• Indirect contact: Close personal contact with an infected person, such as shaking hands or hugging.

While it’s difficult to completely avoid rhinoviruses, you can reduce your risk of infection by:

• Washing hands regularly: Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

• Avoiding close contact: Stay away from people who are sick.

• Disinfecting surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces.

• Boosting immunity: Maintain a healthy diet, get enough sleep, and manage stress.

Similar Common Cold Viruses^3,13

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): RSV is a common virus that can cause cold-like symptoms, especially in young children and older adults. This respiratory virus is more likely to lead to more serious infections.

Parainfluenza virus: This virus can cause cold symptoms and is also known for causing croup, a condition characterized by a barking cough and difficulty breathing, especially in children.

How To Treat a Common Cold

While there is no cure, several common cold treatments and remedies can help alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery. Here are some effective strategies:

Consider Over the Counter Cold Medicines for Common Cold Relief

There are many over the counter (OTC) medicines to help with cold symptoms. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you need help in choosing an OTC cold medicine.

BENADRYL^® is particularly useful for treating allergy symptoms, but it can also help with some common cold symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose.

Consider:

BENADRYL^® Extra Strength Allergy Relief: Provides fast-acting relief for a suite of allergy symptoms.

BENADRYL^® Allergy Plus Congestion: Combines antihistamine and decongestant for fast relief from allergy symptoms and cold symptoms like runny nose and sneezing plus sinus pressure.

Children's BENADRYL^® Allergy Plus Congestion: Formulated specifically for children to provide relief from both allergy and congestion symptoms.

Other Cold Treatment Methods¹⁰

Drink plenty of liquids: Staying hydrated is essential when you have a cold. Water, clear broths, and warm lemon water with honey can help soothe your throat and keep your mucus membranes moist.

Rest: Give your body the time it needs to fight off the virus. Adequate rest can boost your immune system and help you recover faster.

Use a humidifier: Dry air can irritate your nasal passages and throat. A humidifier can add moisture to the air, making it easier to breathe and reducing congestion.

Gargle with salt water: This can help relieve a sore throat. Mix 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water and gargle several times a day. Don’t swallow.

Stay warm: Keep yourself warm and comfortable. Dress in layers and use a blanket to help alleviate body aches and chills.

Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications like acetaminophen (TYLENOL^®) or ibuprofen (Advil^®) can help reduce fever and alleviate body aches. Be sure to read all labels and follow directions accordingly.

Avoid irritants: Stay away from smoke, dust, and other irritants that can worsen your symptoms.

By combining these methods, you can effectively manage the symptoms of a common cold and feel better sooner. For more detailed information on self-care and treatment options, visit our Common Cold Self-Care Treatment & Prevention Page.

When You Should See a Doctor^10,11,12

While most common colds can be managed at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies, there are times when you should consider seeing a doctor. If your cold symptoms worsen or persist, it’s important to seek medical advice to rule out more serious conditions. Here are some signs that indicate you should visit a healthcare provider:

Fever greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius) for more than three days: A high fever that doesn’t subside after a few days could be a sign of a more serious infection.

Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling out of breath can be a sign of complications such as pneumonia or bronchitis.

Wheezing: Persistent wheezing or a whistling sound when you breathe can indicate an underlying respiratory issue.

Chest pain: Any chest pain or discomfort should be evaluated by a doctor, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition.

Severe or persistent headache: If you experience a headache that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter pain relievers or lasts for several days, it’s worth getting checked out.

Persistent cough: A cough that lasts more than two weeks or produces blood or greenish-yellow phlegm may require medical attention.

Severe sore throat: A sore throat that is very painful and doesn’t improve with home remedies could be a sign of strep throat or another infection.

Dehydration: Signs of dehydration, such as dark urine, dizziness, or extreme thirst, indicate that you need more fluids and possibly medical intervention.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the appropriate treatment to help you recover more quickly and safely.

References

1. Cleveland Clinic. Common Cold. Published 2023. Date Accessed: Jan 27, 2025. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12342-common-cold

2. Johns Hopkins Medicine. Common Cold. Published 2025. Date Accessed: Jan 27, 2025. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/common-cold

3. CDC. About Common Cold. Published 2024. Date Accessed: Jan 27, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/common-cold/about/

4. Piedmont. How long are you contagious when you’re sick? Published 2025. Date Accessed: Jan 27, 2025. https://www.piedmont.org/living-real-change/how-long-are-you-contagious-when-youre-sick

5. Mayo Clinic. Common Cold. Published 2023. Date Accessed: Jan 27, 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/common-cold/symptoms-causes/syc-20351605

6. Mayo Clinic. Cold or allergy: Which is it? Published 2024. Date Accessed: Jan 27, 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/common-cold/expert-answers/common-cold/faq-20057857

7. CDC. Cold Versus Flu. Published 2024. Date Accessed: Jan 27, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/coldflu.html

8. Cleveland Clinic. How to Tell If Your Cold is Actually a Sinus Infection. Published 2020. Date Accessed: Jan 27, 2025. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/cold-really-sinus-infection-tell

9. CDC. About Rhinoviruses. Published 2024. Date Accessed: Jan 27, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/rhinoviruses/about/index.html

10. CDC. Manage Common Cold. Published 2024. Date Accessed: Jan 27, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/common-cold/treatment/index.html

11. Mayo Clinic. Flu symptoms: Should I see my doctor? Published 2023. Date Accessed: Jan 27, 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/expert-answers/flu-symptoms/faq-20057983

12. NHS. Common cold. Published 2024. Date Accessed: Jan 27, 2025. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/common-cold/

13. CDC. About RSV. Published 2024. Date Accessed: Jan 28, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/about/index.html

Links to other parties’ articles and websites are provided for convenience only. Kenvue is not responsible for their content.