Introduction​

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The common cold is a mild viral infection that most people will experience several times throughout their life. Although it can make you feel run down, it usually improves on its own within 1 to 2 weeks and can be safely managed at home.

This page explains common cold symptoms, how to care for yourself, and when to seek further advice.

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Cold or flu – what is the difference?

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Colds and flu are caused by different viruses, but their symptoms can overlap.

In general:

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• Colds tend to develop gradually and are usually mild

• Flu often comes on suddenly and can leave you feeling much more unwell
   

Flu is more likely to cause high temperature, body aches and extreme fatigue.

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Common symptoms of a cold

Cold symptoms usually develop gradually over a few days rather than appearing suddenly.

You may experience:

• a blocked or runny nose

• sneezing

• sore throat

• hoarse voice

• cough

• feeling tired or generally unwell
   

Some people may also notice:

• mild temperature

• aching muscles

• reduced sense of taste or smell

• pressure around the ears or face
   

In young children, symptoms can last a little longer. They may appear irritable, have difficulty feeding or sleeping, breathe through their mouth, or vomit after coughing.
 

Looking after yourself at home​
Most people can manage a cold without seeing a GP.
 

What can help
 

• Get plenty of rest

• Drink fluids regularly to prevent dehydration

• Eat normally if you can, it is common for appetite to reduce for a short time

• Gargle warm salt water to soothe a sore throat (not suitable for children)

• Use warm drinks such as lemon and honey to ease throat irritation

• Breathing in warm shower steam may help ease nasal congestion
   

Things to avoid
 

• Do not allow children to inhale steam from bowls of hot water due to burn risk

• Do not give aspirin to anyone under 16

• Avoid smoking, as it can worsen symptoms and delay recovery
   

If you have a temperature or feel unwell, staying at home and resting can also help prevent spreading the virus to others.
 

Support from your local pharmacy
 

Pharmacists can offer advice on managing cold symptoms and recommend suitable treatments.

They may suggest:
 

• paracetamol or ibuprofen for aches, pains or mild fever

• nasal sprays or decongestants to relieve a blocked nose

• vapour rubs for chesty coughs in babies and young children
   

Some products are not suitable for children, pregnant people, or those with certain medical conditions, a pharmacist can help guide you.
 

⚠️ Avoid taking multiple medicines that contain the same ingredients, such as paracetamol, at the same time.
 

There is limited evidence that supplements such as vitamin C, echinacea or garlic prevent colds or shorten recovery.
 

Antibiotics and colds
 

Antibiotics do not work for colds.

Colds are caused by viruses, and antibiotics will not relieve symptoms or speed up recovery. They are only used when a bacterial infection is present.

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When to seek further advice​

Contact your GP or NHS 111 if:
 

• you have a high temperature lasting more than 3 days

• your symptoms are getting worse rather than improving

• you feel very hot, cold or shivery

• you develop chest pain or shortness of breath

• your child’s symptoms are causing concern

• symptoms last longer than 10 days

• you have a cough lasting more than 3 weeks

• you have a long-term health condition (such as heart, lung, kidney disease or diabetes)

• you have a weakened immune system
   

Reducing the spread of a cold​

Colds spread easily through close contact, coughing, sneezing and contaminated surfaces.

You may be infectious from a few days before symptoms begin until they fully resolve, often 1 to 2 weeks, and sometimes longer in young children.
 

To reduce spread:
 

• wash hands frequently with soap and warm water

• use tissues when coughing or sneezing

• dispose of tissues promptly

• clean commonly touched surfaces
   

Preventing future colds
 

While it is not always possible to avoid catching a cold, you can reduce your risk by:
 

• washing hands regularly

• avoiding sharing cups, towels or toys

• avoiding touching your eyes and nose with unwashed hands

• maintaining good general health through rest, nutrition and hydration
   

The flu vaccine does not protect against the common cold.
 

Community Medics note

This information is designed to support confidence in self-care and help you understand when home management is appropriate, and when it is time to seek further help. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and seek medical advice.

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