Common cold
Also called: cold
A common viral infection of the nose and throat.
- Spreads in various ways
- Usually self-treatable
- Usually self-diagnosable
- Lab tests or imaging not required
- Short-term: resolves within days to weeks
In contrast to the flu, a common cold can be caused by many different types of viruses. The condition is usually harmless and symptoms usually resolve within two weeks.
Very common: More than 3 million US cases per year
Consult a doctor for medical advice
Sources: Mayo Clinic and others. Learn more
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May 24, 2023 · The common cold is an illness affecting your nose and throat. Most often, it's harmless, but it might not feel that way.
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Nov 16, 2022 · More than 200 different viruses can cause a cold, but rhinoviruses are the most common type. The viruses that cause colds are very contagious.
Antibiotics cannot cure the common cold or help you feel better if you have a runny nose.
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The common cold or the cold is a viral infectious disease of the upper respiratory tract that primarily affects the respiratory mucosa of the nose, throat, ...
The common cold most often causes a runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing. You may also have a sore throat, cough, headache, or other symptoms.
Mar 15, 2024 · Sneezing, scratchy throat, runny nose -- everyone knows the first signs of a cold, probably the most common illness known.
Mar 8, 2023 · Rhinoviruses are the most frequent cause of the common cold. In the United States, children have an average of two rhinovirus infections ...
May 24, 2023 · This common illness of the nose and throat causes a stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, and cough.