Most often, common cold symptoms start 1 to 3 days after someone is exposed to a cold virus. Symptoms vary. They can include: Runny or stuffy nose. Sore or scratchy throat. Cough. Sneezing. Generally feeling unwell. Slight body aches or a mild headache. Low-grade fever. The mucus from your nose may start out clear and become thicker and yellow ...
Treatment There's no cure for the common cold. Most cases of the common cold get better without treatment within 7 to 10 days. But a cough may last a few more days. The best thing you can do is take care of yourself while your body heals. Care tips include: Rest. Drink plenty of liquids. Humidify the air. Use saline nasal rinses. Antibiotics do not treat cold viruses. They are used to treat ...
Sick with a a cold, flu or other respiratory virus? Learn some home management tips from a Mayo Clinic family medicine physician.
Cold ice cream can soothe a sore throat, and probiotics in yogurt can help alleviate stomach upset if you are taking antibiotics for an infection. Check with your primary health care provider or pharmacist to get a list of foods you should avoid with medications.
A cold may last 3 to 10 days in adults, although a cough may last for a couple of weeks longer. You can treat the symptoms of the common cold with rest and added fluids. Pain relievers may help with aching muscles or throat pain. Nasal rinses or sprays may help with congestion or runny nose. Seasonal allergies may last several weeks.
And while a cold can be miserable, you usually feel much worse with the flu. Other common flu symptoms include: Fever. Cough. Headache. Muscle aches. Feeling very tired. Sweating and chills. In children, these symptoms may show up more generally as being fussy or irritable.