Overview

Causes

The common cold is caused by a virus. There are over 200 different viruses that can cause a cold.

Risk Factors

The common cold is most common in infants and young children. However, people of all ages get colds. They are also more common during autumn. Other things that raise the risk are:

  • Being near someone who has a cold
  • Touching the nose, mouth, or eyes with contaminated hands
  • Having a weak immune system
  • Smoking
  • Heavy physical training
  • Sleeping less than 6 hours
  • Recent airplane travel

SymptomsandDiagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms of the common cold may be:

  • A stuffy or runny nose
  • Coughing
  • A sore throat
  • Sneezing
  • A low fever
  • Headache or body aches
  • A hoarse voice
  • Feeling tired

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is most often based on symptoms. Tests are usually only given if it is thought that the person has another condition, such as pneumonia.

Treatments

Treatment

A cold often lasts 10 days or longer. Home can can help ease symptoms. This includes rest, fluids, warm and moist air, and garling with salt water. Medicines may also be helpful to:

  • Loosen mucus
  • Ease sore throat and coughing

Medicines are often used to ease a stuffy nose but they may not be the most effective choice.

Prevention

The risk of getting a cold may be lowered by:

  • Washing the hands often
  • Staying away from people with colds
  • Not touching the nose, mouth, and eyes
  • Healthy habits, such as getting plenty of sleep and not smoking

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Edits to original content made by Denver Health.