Do You Get Frequent Colds? Everything You Need to Know About the Common Cold

Almost all of us have experienced a common cold at least once in our lives, and for many, it is a frequent nuisance. While it might seem like a minor inconvenience to some, it can be quite difficult when young children catch it. Today at Nirogi Lanka, let's talk about the 'common cold'—what it really is, why it happens, its symptoms, how to treat it, and how you can prevent it in simple terms.

What is the Common Cold?

Simply put, the common cold is a highly contagious upper respiratory tract infection. This means it primarily affects your nose, throat, sinuses, and trachea (windpipe). You might have heard that a cold can be caused by a coronavirus. Indeed, more than 200 different types of viruses can cause a cold, though the most common culprit is the Rhinovirus.

We call it the "common" cold because, as the name suggests, it is incredibly prevalent. You have likely had more colds in your lifetime than any other illness. While adults typically get two to three colds a year, young children can catch four or more annually.

What are the Symptoms of a Common Cold? (Stage by Stage)

Cold symptoms usually progress through several distinct stages. Let's look at what you can expect during each phase.

Stage 1: Days 1 to 3 (Early Stage)

Within one to three days of a cold virus entering your system, you might start feeling a tickle or scratchiness in your throat. In fact, about half of all people with a cold report that their first symptom is a tickly or sore throat. During this early stage, you might also experience:

• Sneezing.
• A runny nose.
• Nasal congestion (stuffy nose).
• A cough.
• A raspy or hoarse voice (hoarseness).

Stage 2: Days 4 to 7 (Active Stage)

This is when your symptoms tend to peak and feel most intense. In addition to the early symptoms, you may also experience:

• Body aches and muscle soreness.
• Headaches.
• Watery eyes and a runny nose.
• Fatigue (feeling very tired).
• A mild fever (more common in children).

Stage 3: Days 8 to 10 (Late Stage)

By this time, your cold should begin to resolve. You might even feel completely back to normal. However, some symptoms can linger. For instance, some people develop a post-infectious cough that can last for up to two months after the initial infection has cleared.

Important: If your symptoms continue to worsen or if your fever returns, be sure to consult a doctor. This could indicate that you have developed a secondary infection, such as bronchitis (airway inflammation), sinusitis (a sinus infection), or pneumonia (a lung infection).

What are the Symptoms of a Cold in Babies and Toddlers?

When infants and young children get a cold, they may exhibit symptoms such as:

• A runny nose (nasal discharge may start clear, then become thicker and turn grey, yellow, or green).
• Sneezing.
• A fever of around 101-102°F (38.3-38.9°C).
• Loss of appetite (poor feeding).
• Increased drooling (due to a sore throat and difficulty swallowing).
• A cough.
• Irritability and frequent crying.
• Slightly swollen glands (lymph nodes).

Is Your Baby's Cold Getting Serious? Watch Out for These Warning Signs!

If your child exhibits any of the following symptoms, contact a doctor or seek medical attention immediately. These signs indicate that your child might be suffering from something more serious than a simple cold:

• A fever in a baby aged 2 months or younger.
• Difficulty breathing (especially if your baby's nostrils flare with each breath).
• Rapid or labored breathing.
• Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing).
• Retractions (the skin pulling in tightly around the ribs with each breath).
• Blue-tinged lips or skin.
• Refusal to eat or drink (which can lead to dehydration).
• Signs of ear pain (pulling at ears, crying).
• Extreme lethargy, excessive sleepiness, or persistent crying.
• A cough that lasts longer than 3 weeks.
• Your child's condition seems to be steadily worsening.

What Causes the Common Cold?

Rhinoviruses are responsible for about 50% of all common colds, and there are over 100 different strains of this virus. However, other viruses like coronaviruses can also cause colds. In total, more than 200 different types of viruses can trigger a common cold.

Is the Cold Contagious? How Does It Spread?

Yes, absolutely. The common cold is highly contagious and spreads very easily. To catch a cold, the virus must find its way to your mucous membranes—the moist linings of your nostrils, eyes, or mouth. This usually happens when you touch a contaminated surface or inhale respiratory droplets containing the virus.

For example, when an infected person sneezes or coughs, they release virus-laden droplets into the air. If you breathe in these droplets, the virus can take root inside your nose. Similarly, if you touch a surface contaminated with the virus and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, the virus can enter your body.

How Long Are You Contagious?

You can spread the cold virus for up to two weeks. Sometimes, you can even pass it to others a day or two before your own symptoms begin. However, you are most contagious when your symptoms are at their peak—usually during the first three days of the illness.

How Long Does It Take for Symptoms to Appear? (Incubation Period)

This is known as the incubation period—the time between being exposed to the virus and when your first symptoms appear. For the common cold, the incubation period is typically between 12 hours and three days after exposure.

Why Do Babies and Toddlers Get Colds So Frequently?

The main reason children get so many colds is that they haven't been exposed to as many viruses as adults have. Their immune systems are still learning to recognize and fight off new germs.

Before the age of two, a baby might catch 8 to 10 colds a year. By the time you reach adulthood, your immune system has encountered many of these viruses and developed antibodies, making it much easier to quickly recognize and fight them off.

Furthermore, children play in close contact with one another. They often forget to cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing, and they rarely wash their hands before touching their faces—the very actions that stop the spread of viruses. Cold viruses can survive on surfaces like toys for several hours. Babies frequently put toys touched by other children into their mouths, facilitating the easy transfer of the virus.

How Do Doctors Diagnose a Common Cold?

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and perform a physical examination. During this exam, the doctor may look for:

• Swelling inside your nasal passages.
• Nasal congestion.
• Redness or irritation in your throat.
• Swollen lymph nodes (glands) in your neck.
• Whether your lungs are clear.

What Diagnostic Tests Might Be Done?

Usually, a physical exam is all that is needed to diagnose a cold. However, if your doctor suspects you might have COVID-19, the flu, or another condition, they may run some tests. They might perform a nasal swab test to check for specific respiratory viruses. Additionally, a chest X-ray may be ordered to rule out other issues like bronchitis or pneumonia.

How is the Common Cold Treated?

Truth be told, there is no cure for the common cold. It simply has to run its course. In most cases, a cold will resolve on its own within 7 to 10 days without causing any serious complications. Treatment is focused on relieving your symptoms and keeping you comfortable while your body heals, which can be done using over-the-counter (OTC) medications.

Why Can't Antibiotics Cure a Common Cold?

Antibiotics are designed to fight infections caused by bacteria. Since colds are caused by viruses, antibiotics are completely ineffective against them. However, if a child develops a bacterial complication, such as a middle ear infection or bacterial pneumonia, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat that specific secondary infection.

Which Medications Help Relieve Symptoms?

There are many OTC medications available to help soothe your symptoms. However, some of these medications are not safe for children. Always consult a healthcare professional before giving any OTC medication to your child. Avoid combining multiple multi-symptom cold products, as you might accidentally take too much of a certain active ingredient, which can lead to serious health complications or damage to organs like your kidneys.

Common medications used to ease cold symptoms include:

• Pain Relievers and Fever Reducers: Medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol®) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil®) can help ease headaches, muscle aches, and reduce fevers.
• Decongestants: Drugs like pseudoephedrine (e.g., Contac Cold 12 Hour®, Sudafed®) can help relieve a stuffy nose.
• Antihistamines: Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) and other antihistamines can help reduce sneezing and dry up a runny nose.
• Cough Suppressants: Medications containing dextromethorphan (e.g., Robitussin®, Vicks DayQuil Cough®) or codeine can help quieten a cough. These are generally not recommended for children under 5 years of age.
• Expectorants: Guaifenesin (Mucinex®) and other expectorants help thin and loosen mucus so you can cough it up more easily.

What Home Remedies Can Help a Baby with a Cold?

Unless specifically prescribed by a pediatrician, never give your baby any OTC cough or cold medications. Instead, try these safe home remedies to soothe your baby's cold:

• Keep your baby comfortable.
• Keep them hydrated. For babies 6 months or younger, continue feeding them breast milk or formula. For babies over 6 months, you can also offer small sips of water.
• Ensure they get plenty of rest.

Most children cannot blow their noses effectively until they are around 4 years old. To help clear your baby's congested nose, try these helpful methods:

• Saline drops and suction: About 15 minutes before feeding your baby, apply a few drops of OTC saline (saltwater) drops into their nostrils to loosen the mucus. After a few minutes, use a rubber bulb syringe or a nasal aspirator to gently suction out the fluid and mucus. This clears their nasal passages, making it much easier for them to breathe and nurse at the same time.
• Petroleum jelly:Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the outer edges of your baby's nostrils to soothe irritated skin. Do not apply it inside the nostrils. (Avoid using OTC nasal sprays unless recommended by a doctor; while they may provide temporary relief, overusing them can actually worsen nasal congestion.)
• Humidifier or Vaporizer: Place a cool-mist humidifier or vaporizer in your baby's room to add moisture to the air. The clean, cool mist helps soothe dry nasal passages and a sore throat. Always thoroughly clean and dry the humidifier before and after use to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria. Check the filter to see if it needs replacing. Do not use hot-water vaporizers due to the risk of accidental burns.
• Steam therapy: If you do not have a humidifier, you can create a steam room in your bathroom. Turn on the hot shower, close the door, and sit in the steamy bathroom with your baby for about 15 minutes. Never leave your baby unattended, and be extremely careful around hot water. Giving your baby a warm bath can also be highly soothing.

If your children seem happy and are playing normally, they can usually continue with their daily activities. However, if they have a fever or other complications, keeping them at home to rest is the best course of action.

How Can You Prevent Getting a Common Cold?

While it is difficult to avoid colds entirely, you can significantly lower your risk by taking these simple steps:

• Wash your hands frequently: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating, preparing food, after using the restroom, after blowing your nose, or after caring for someone with a cold.
• Avoid touching your face: Cold viruses can easily transfer from your hands to your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Disinfect high-touch surfaces: Regularly clean surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops where viruses can survive.
• Use hand sanitizer: When soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Boost your immune system: Prioritize getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly to keep your body strong and ready to fight off infections.
• Stay home when sick: Protect others by staying home from work or school when you are unwell.

How Can You Protect Your Baby from catching a Cold?

The absolute best way to protect your baby is to keep them away from anyone who has a cold. Whenever possible, keep your baby at home during peak cold and flu seasons. A virus that causes only mild symptoms in an adult or older child can lead to a much more severe illness in an infant.

Consistent handwashing is the single most effective way to stop the spread of cold viruses:

• Adults and older children should wash their hands immediately after coughing, sneezing, or blowing their noses.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after touching anyone who is sick.
• After wiping your baby's nose, wash both your hands and your baby's hands.
• Regularly clean and sanitize toys. Do not let babies share toys that have been placed in another child's mouth.
• If soap and water are not nearby, use pre-moistened hand wipes or hand sanitizer. (Always keep hand sanitizers safely out of reach of children, as they can be toxic if swallowed.)

Ensure your child receives all recommended immunizations on schedule. While routine vaccines do not prevent the common cold itself, they are vital for protecting your child against serious secondary complications, such as bacterial ear infections or pneumonia.

Pediatricians recommend a yearly influenza (flu) vaccinefor babies aged 6 months and older. While this vaccine specifically targets the flu virus rather than other common respiratory viruses, it is crucial for seasonal protection. The COVID-19 vaccine is also recommended for children starting from 6 months of age.

How Long Does a Cold Last?

Most common colds resolve on their own within 7 to 10 days. The vast majority of people recover quickly without any lasting effects.

Can a Common Cold Be Fatal?

A typical common cold is not fatal. However, for certain high-risk individuals—especially those with compromised or weakened immune systems—a cold can lead to serious secondary complications. These complications can include:

• Asthma flare-ups.
• Sinus infections.
• Ear infections.

What are the Best Remedies for the Common Cold?

You may have heard that dietary supplements or herbal remedies like Zinc, Vitamin C, and Echinacea can cure or prevent the common cold.

To date, researchers have not found conclusive evidence that any of these alternatives can reliably prevent a cold. However, taking Zinc within 24 hours of symptom onset may help shorten the duration of the illness and reduce its severity. Keep in mind that using zinc nasal sprays can lead to a permanent loss of smell (anosmia) and is not recommended.

The single best self-care remedy for a cold is plenty of rest. Consider staying home from work or school for at least the first few days of your illness. Not only will this give your body the rest it needs to recover, but it also prevents you from spreading the virus to others.

Additionally, drink plenty of fluids to keep your nasal passages and throat moist and hydrated. Avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine, as these can actually dehydrate your body.

When Should You See a Doctor for a Cold?

Please consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following warning signs:

• A high or persistent fever.
• Chest pain or chest pressure.
• Severe ear pain.
• Worsening asthma symptoms or difficulty breathing.
• Symptoms that last longer than 10 days or continue to worsen over time.

When Should You Seek Urgent Medical Care for Your Child?

If your child shows any of these signs, contact their pediatrician immediately or visit your local hospital emergency department:

• A sudden high fever.
• Refusing to eat or drink.
• Frequent vomiting.
• Complaints of severe ear or abdominal pain.
• Crying significantly more than usual.
• Extreme lethargy or unusual drowsiness.
• A new onset of wheezing.
• Any signs of difficulty breathing.

What If You Catch a Cold While Pregnant?

Catching a cold during pregnancy is generally not dangerous for you or your baby. However, you must be very careful about the medications you take to manage your symptoms. Your obstetrician or doctor can provide you with a list of pregnancy-safe medications.

If you suspect you have the flu or if you develop a fever, contact your healthcare provider immediately. You may need prompt antiviral treatment.

Why Are Colds More Common in the Winter?

While you can catch a cold at any time of the year, they are far more common during the colder months. This is partly because people spend more time indoors in close proximity to one another when the weather is cold.

A recent study on mice suggests that cold temperatures might also directly affect your immune response. Researchers found that when cool air lowers the temperature inside the nasal cavity, it becomes harder for the immune system to stop the replication of the Rhinovirus. A similar mechanism is believed to occur in humans.

Common Cold vs. COVID-19: How Can You Tell the Difference?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause upper respiratory tract infections. While rhinoviruses cause most colds, some colds are caused by coronaviruses. Most people recover from these mild coronaviruses without any issues.

However, certain coronaviruses can travel down into your lungs, causing pneumonia and other life-threatening complications. The novel coronavirus discovered in 2019 causes a specific disease known as COVID-19. Key early symptoms that help distinguish COVID-19 from a standard cold include:

• A fever.
• Chills.
• Difficulty breathing (dyspnea).
• A loss of taste or smell (anosmia).
• Diarrhea.

That said, symptoms of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 tend to be milder and can easily be mistaken for a common cold. Common cold-like symptoms of Omicron include:

• A runny nose.
• A cough.
• A sore throat.
• A headache.
• Nasal congestion.

If you are in doubt, it is always best to get tested.

Common Cold vs. The Flu: What is the Difference?

It can be quite difficult to distinguish between a cold and the flu because their symptoms overlap significantly. Both are common during the winter months and affect your upper respiratory system. However, they are caused by entirely different viruses; the flu is caused by the Influenza virus, whereas the cold is caused by various other viruses.

The primary difference between a cold and the flu is that the flu is much more likely to cause a sudden fever and chills. While adults rarely get a fever with a common cold, children sometimes do.

Flu symptoms—such as severe body aches and fatigue—are generally much more intense than cold symptoms. While both illnesses can lead to complications, flu-related complications are far more likely to be severe or life-threatening.

Common Cold vs. a Chest Cold: What's the Difference?

A chest cold, medically known as acute bronchitis, is an inflammation of the airways in your lungs that causes mucus build-up. A head cold can progress into a chest cold if the virus spreads from your nose and throat down into your lungs. Less commonly, a chest cold can also be caused by bacteria.

While you can experience a cough with both a head cold and a chest cold, a chest cold is characterized by a "wet" or productive cough. This means you will feel congestion deep in your chest or bring up mucus when you cough. You might also experience:

• A persistent cough that disrupts your sleep at night.
• Shortness of breath.
• Chest discomfort or mild pain.

A Few Final Takeaways

While a cold can be incredibly uncomfortable, it is generally harmless and manageable. You can easily control your symptoms with supportive home care and over-the-counter relief. Prioritize getting plenty of rest, staying well-hydrated, and staying home to avoid spreading the virus to others. If your symptoms do not start to improve after 10 days, make sure to consult a healthcare provider. When it comes to babies and young children, always remain highly vigilant for the warning signs of serious illness.