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Mild severity
· General Physician
Common Cold
Viral upper respiratory infection
A mild viral infection of the nose and throat. It clears on its own; treatment only eases symptoms while the body recovers.
At a glance
- Prevalence
- Adults 2-3 times a year
- Typical age
- All ages
- Outlook
- Self-limiting in 7-10 days
- System
- Lungs
Reviewed by a verified General Physician doctor
What causes it
Causes
- Rhinoviruses and other common viruses
- Close contact with infected people
- Touching contaminated surfaces then the face
- Low immunity, cold weather crowding
- Lack of sleep and stress
How it feels
Symptoms & effects
- Runny or blocked nose
- Sneezing and sore throat
- Mild cough
- Low-grade fever and tiredness
- Watery eyes
How it’s treated
Treatment & cure
- Rest and plenty of fluids
- Steam inhalation and saline drops
- Paracetamol for fever or aches
- Warm salt-water gargle
- Antibiotics are NOT needed for a cold
Staying ahead
Prevention
- Wash hands often
- Avoid touching face with unwashed hands
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Stay home when unwell
Do’s
- Wash hands with soap regularly
- Drink warm fluids and rest
- Use a separate towel at home
- Ventilate rooms well
Don’ts
- Demand antibiotics for a viral cold
- Share utensils or towels when ill
- Skip sleep and overexert
- Smoke or sit in smoky rooms
See a doctor immediately if
Symptoms are sudden or severe, getting worse despite home care, or interfering with sleep, work or daily life. Don’t self-diagnose from the internet — book a verified clinician below.
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Disclaimer ·
This article is educational and reviewed by clinicians, but it cannot replace an in-person assessment.
Medication doses, prevention advice and treatment choices vary by person. Always confirm with a doctor before acting on anything here.