During the fall and winter months, illnesses can circulate like wildfire. The common cold is a very common viral infection that spreads quickly and can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms. While the duration of symptoms can vary depending on certain factors, most colds typically last about 7 to 10 days. Understanding the typical timeline of cold symptoms can help individuals manage expectations, seek appropriate care, and determine when to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms worsen.
If you’re suffering from illness symptoms, AFC Urgent Care Edgewater can help. Our team of dedicated medical providers is available to provide same-day illness care on a walk-in basis - 7 days a week! Walk into the clinic today for same-day care.
How Long Cold Symptoms Normally Last
The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory system and can cause a wide variety of symptoms. Typical cold symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and a sore throat, often accompanied by a mild cough. Some individuals may experience postnasal drip as the infection progresses, leading to throat irritation or a persistent cough. These symptoms usually develop gradually and can last anywhere from a few days to well over a week, although their severity can vary from person to person.
How Does a Cold Spread?
The common cold is caused by viruses. There are many different viruses that can cause a cold including coronaviruses, adenoviruses, and respiratory syncytial viruses. These viruses spread primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or talks. They can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face, particularly the nose, mouth, or eyes.
Management and Treatment
Colds often do not require a medical diagnosis or treatment from a medical professional because the symptoms tend to be mild and short lived. Managing and treating a cold focuses on relieving symptoms while your body fights off the infection. Medications such as antibiotics do not work on viral infections. However, you can try the following tips for managing your cold symptoms:
- Get plenty of rest
- Stay hydrated
- Use over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms such as decongestants and pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Gargle with warm salt water can soothe nasal passages and sore throats
- Take hot showers and use a humidifier to help ease breathing and reduce congestion
Visit AFC Urgent Care Edgewater for Same-Day Illness Care
Colds can cause irritating illness symptoms. Cold symptoms can also easily be confused with symptoms of other illnesses. For same-day symptom diagnosis and treatment, AFC Edgewater is here to help. Our walk-in clinic is equipped with an on-site laboratory for rapid illness diagnosis. Seeking care for illness symptoms early can help prevent your symptoms from becoming more severe. At AFC Urgent Care Edgewater we accept most medical insurance plans and never require that you make an appointment in advance - just walk in when it’s convenient for you!
