The signs and symptoms of the common cold usually peak within 2 to 3 days. Below are some of the symptoms:
- Runny nose
- Congestion or Stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Hoarseness
- Headache
- Mild body aches
- Fatigue
- Mucus dripping down your throat (post-nasal drip)
- Watery eyes
- Fever (although this is less common)
When viruses that cause colds first infect the nose and sinuses, the nose makes clear mucus. This helps wash the viruses from the nose and sinuses. After 2 or 3 days, mucus may change to a white, yellow, or green color. This is normal and does not mean you need an antibiotic.
Some symptoms, especially runny or stuffy nose and cough, can last for up to 10 to 14 days. Those symptoms should improve over time.
When to Seek Medical Care
See a doctor if you have:
- Trouble breathing or fast breathing
- Dehydration
- Fever that lasts longer than 4 days
- Symptoms that last more than 10 days without improvement
- Symptoms, such as fever or cough, that improve but then return or worsen
- Worsening of chronic medical conditions
REMEMBER THAT: symptoms of a common cold can vary from person to person and can also depend on the specific virus that is causing the infection. Symptoms usually appear one to three days after exposure to the virus and can last for up to two weeks.