The common cold typically lasts for about one to two weeks. However, some symptoms such as a cough or congestion can last for several weeks longer. Symptoms usually peak within the first three to five days of the infection and then gradually subside.
It’s important to note that some people may experience a relapse of symptoms after feeling better for a few days, this is called a “cold with a second wind” and it is not uncommon.
It’s also worth noting that while the virus is contagious for a few days before symptoms appear and can remain so for up to a week after symptoms have disappeared, people are most contagious during the first three days of their cold.