Common Cold (Upper Respiratory Infection)

The common cold is a widespread respiratory illness that usually causes mild symptoms such as congestion, sore throat, sneezing, and cough. UI Health Care providers are a source of timely, comprehensive care and support to help you manage symptoms at home and recognize when medical care may be needed.

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The common cold, also known as an upper respiratory infection, is one of the most common illnesses in the world. Most adults have an average of two to three colds each year, and children typically experience even more. Over a lifetime, you are likely to have more colds than any other illness.

Although rhinoviruses are the most common cause, hundreds of different viruses can lead to a cold. These viruses are highly contagious and spread easily through respiratory droplets released when a person coughs, sneezes, or talks. You can also catch a cold by touching your mouth, nose, or eyes after coming into contact with a surface contaminated with the virus.

Common cold symptoms

Symptoms of the common cold can start 1 to 3 days after exposure to the virus.

Common symptoms in children and adults include:

Runny or stuffy nose
Scratchy or sore throat
Sneezing
Headache
Cough
Fatigue
Low grade fever

When to seek care

Most of the time, a cold goes away on its own in seven to 10 days. For some people — especially those with weakened immune systems, asthma, or other preexisting respiratory conditions — a cold may develop into more severe illnesses, such as pneumonia, sinus infections, or ear infections, or trigger asthma exacerbations.

Contact your provider right away if your symptoms last longer than 10 days without improvement or you develop trouble breathing.

Common cold diagnosis

Your provider can usually diagnose a cold by talking with you about your symptoms and doing a quick physical exam. This can also be completed at a Quick Care or Urgent Care location, or through our telehealth services.

If your provider suspects you have COVID-19 or the flu, they may take a nasal swab to check for these viruses. If they think your cold has developed into pneumonia, they may order an X-ray.

Common cold treatment

The common cold is caused by a variety of viruses, so there is no specific cure, vaccine, or antibiotic to treat or prevent it. Most adults and children recover at home within one to two weeks with plenty of rest and fluids. Over-the-counter medications — such as pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen), decongestants, and cough suppressants — can help relieve symptoms. However, caregivers should always check with a child’s primary care provider before giving any medications.

Common cold prevention

Colds are most common in the winter and spring, but you can catch one at any time of the year.

You can protect yourself and others from getting the common cold by:

Staying home when sick. Stay home until your symptoms are improving, and you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication.
Washing your hands frequently with soap and water or hand sanitizer.
Limit sharing of cups or utensils. This is always best practice as it limits the transmission of germs and bacteria that can cause illness.
Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow. Dispose of tissues promptly and wash your hands. Wearing a face mask when you’re feeling unwell can also help reduce spread.
Disinfecting high-touch surfaces. Keep surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops clean to help kill germs that can spread illness.

Common Cold (Upper Respiratory Infection)

Common cold symptoms

When to seek care

Common cold diagnosis

Common cold treatment

Common cold prevention

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Common Cold (Upper Respiratory Infection)

Common cold symptoms

When to seek care

Common cold diagnosis

Common cold treatment

Common cold prevention

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