What are colds?
Colds are the most common infection of the nose, sinuses, or throat (upper respiratory infection). Colds are caused by viruses. They're spread by coughs, sneezes, and close contact. You can catch a cold at any time of year, but they're more common in late winter and early spring. There's no cure for colds.
What are the symptoms of a cold?
Lots of different viruses cause colds, but the symptoms are usually the same. They include:
- Runny nose and sneezing.
- Red eyes.
- Sore throat and cough.
- Headaches and body aches.
You will probably feel a cold come on over the course of a couple of days. As the cold gets worse, your nose may get stuffy with thicker mucus.
A cold isn't the same as the flu (influenza). Flu symptoms are worse and come on faster. If you have the flu, you may feel very tired. You may also have a fever and shaking chills, lots of aches and pains, a headache, and a cough.
If you feel like you have a cold all the time, or if cold symptoms last more than 2 weeks, you may have allergies or sinusitis.
How are upper respiratory infections (URIs) diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and do a physical exam. This may give the doctor enough information to know if you have a cold, the flu, or another illness. In some cases, the doctor may test a sample from your nose, throat, or lungs to find out what's causing your illness.
How are upper respiratory infections (URIs) treated?
Most people can treat their symptoms with home care, such as resting and taking medicine to lower their fever. For some URIs, your doctor may prescribe medicine that can make the symptoms milder. People who have severe symptoms or get pneumonia need treatment in the hospital.
How can you care for yourself when you have an upper respiratory infection (cold)?
Home treatment for an upper respiratory infection can help you feel better. This includes getting extra rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and using a humidifier to relieve a stuffy nose. Follow the directions for cleaning the machine. You may decide to try a cough, cold, or allergy medicine for your symptoms. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
Upper respiratory infection (cold) in children 6 years and older: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- Your child seems very sick or is hard to wake up.
- Your child has severe trouble breathing. Symptoms may include:
- Using the belly muscles to breathe.
- The chest sinking in or the nostrils flaring when your child struggles to breathe.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your child has new or worse trouble breathing.
- Your child has a new or higher fever.
- Your child seems to be getting much sicker.
- Your child has a new rash.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- Your child is coughing more deeply or more often, especially if you notice more mucus or a change in the color of the mucus.
- Your child has a new symptom, such as a sore throat, an earache, or sinus pain.
- Your child is not getting better as expected.
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