The common cold is a viral infection that affects your nose and throat. It usually causes a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, sore throat and cough. Most people begin to notice an improvement in symptoms within two to five days, with full recovery occurring around seven to 10 days, although a cough may persist for a few weeks in some people. There’s no instant cure, but rest, fluids and simple analgesia (paracetamol and ibuprofen) can help you feel more comfortable while your body recovers.
It starts with a scratchy throat on the morning commute and then a sneeze or two over your flat white. By the time you're back home on the couch with a cuppa and a box of tissues, your nose is running, your head feels heavy and all you want is to hide under a doona until it passes.
In this article, we'll walk through the symptoms of a common cold, how to get some relief at home and the signs that mean it might be time to see a doctor.
What is the common cold?
The common cold is a viral infection that affects your upper respiratory tract, including your nose, throat and airways. It’s usually caused by viruses like rhinovirus, which spread easily between people.
The good news is that for most people, a cold is mild and clears up on its own within about seven to 10 days, although a cough can hang around a little longer. Unlike the flu, colds don’t usually come with a high fever or severe body aches.
If you’re unsure which one you’re dealing with, you can check out our guide on the difference between cold, flu and COVID-19.
What are the symptoms of a cold?
“Cold symptoms tend to build gradually and usually peak over the first few days, rather than hitting all at once,” says Monique Vincent, Clinical Advisor at nib. Common symptoms include:
A runny or blocked nose
Sneezing
Sore throat
Cough
Feeling a bit run-down.
You might also notice mild headaches, tiredness or a low-grade fever, though higher fevers are less common with colds than other illnesses.
Cold symptoms usually peak within the first few days, then slowly improve. “During that time, you might notice your symptoms shift, from a runny nose to more congestion, with mucus changing from clear to yellow or green. That’s a normal part of the body fighting the virus and on its own isn’t a sign you need antibiotics,” says Monique.
Are colds contagious and how do they spread?
Colds are very contagious, especially in the early stages, which helps explain why one sniffly colleague can suddenly turn into half the office being off sick.
How a cold spreads
Cold viruses spread through tiny droplets when someone coughs, sneezes or even talks. You can also pick them up by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face.
That’s why simple habits like washing your hands regularly and properly covering coughs can make a big difference in slowing the spread of viruses.
When are you contagious with a cold?
You’re usually most contagious in the first few days, when symptoms like a runny nose and sneezing are at their peak. You can still potentially spread a cold for several days after that, while symptoms are hanging around. If you’re feeling unwell, it can be a good idea to stay home, rest up and avoid close contact, especially with babies, older people or anyone with a compromised immune system.
Cold or something else?
Sometimes it’s not always clear whether it’s a cold or something a bit more serious. Colds tend to be milder and develop slowly, while the flu or COVID-19 can come on more suddenly and feel more intense.
When should you see a doctor for a cold?
Most colds clear up on their own, but it’s worth checking in with a doctor if:
Symptoms are getting worse instead of better
You’re not improving after about 10 days
You have a high fever, severe sinus pain or ear pain
You’re wheezing or short of breath
You’re caring for a baby, older person, or someone with a chronic condition.
If leaving the house feels like too much effort (fair enough when you’re wrapped in a blanket bingeing reruns), nib members can access telehealth consultations with a medical doctor or nurse practitioner for advice on what to do next. Plus, if you need a day off to recover, you can organise a medical certificate if appropriate without heading into a waiting room.
How can you relieve cold symptoms at home?
There’s no cure that makes a cold disappear overnight, but there are ways to feel more comfortable while your body recovers.
Self-care that may help
Rest: Your body heals faster when you slow down (as much as life allows).
Fluids: Staying hydrated helps loosen mucus and prevent dehydration.
Warm drinks: Think soups, broths or herbal tea, comfort food at its best.
Over-the-counter relief: Medicines like paracetamol or ibuprofen may help ease pain or fever when appropriate.
Saline sprays or throat lozenges can also take the edge off for some people. Just remember to read the label first and check in with your pharmacist if you're not sure what's right for you. “Keep in mind these things ease the symptoms, they don't get rid of the virus itself. That part is really down to time and rest, giving your immune system the space to do its job” Monique reminds us.
Why antibiotics don’t help
Colds are caused by viruses, which means antibiotics won’t make them go away faster. Antibiotics are only used for bacterial infections when they’re clinically needed, so using them for a cold won’t help and may contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), something health services are working hard to reduce.
When should you get urgent medical help?
Seek urgent care if you notice:
Trouble breathing
Chest pain
Blue lips
Confusion
Signs of severe dehydration
For babies, get urgent help if they’re struggling to feed, unusually sleepy, or having trouble breathing. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and seek help straight away by calling 000.
Looking for support while you’re unwell?
If you’re feeling under the weather and need advice, a medical certificate or even treatment delivered to your door, you can explore nib’s convenient options for members. It’s one of the simple ways to get professional care from home, especially when leaving the couch isn’t an appealing option.
Common cold FAQs
Here are a few quick answers to some of the most common cold questions.
How long are you contagious with a cold
You’re usually most contagious during the first few days of symptoms, but you can spread the virus for several days after that while symptoms are still present.
What are the symptoms of a common cold?
Common symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough and feeling generally unwell.
What helps relieve a cold quickly?
Rest, fluids and simple symptom relief can help you feel better, but there’s no way to instantly cure a cold.
When should you see a doctor for a cold?
If symptoms are worsening, lasting longer than expected, or feel severe, it’s best to speak with a GP.
This information is general in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always speak with a qualified health professional if you have concerns about your symptoms.
