Common cold

Common cold is usually self-limited and resolves within a few days. Most people experience at least one common cold per year.

Diagnosis is generally clinical, based on history and examination. Investigations may be required when symptoms worsen or do not resolve in the usual timeframe.

Treatment includes reassurance that this is a self-limiting condition, rest, adequate fluid intake, and symptom relief. Antibiotics are not recommended.

Complications include bacterial infections such as otitis media, sinusitis, or pneumonia.

An acute, self-limiting inflammation of the upper respiratory tract mucosa that may involve any or all of the nose, throat, sinuses, and larynx. The condition is not characterised by a discrete set of specific symptoms, with the illness varying according to individual and causative pathogen. Occasionally, there is spread to the lower respiratory tract. Symptoms include sore throat, sneezing, blocked, and/or runny nose, headache, cough, malaise, and low-grade fever. The condition is associated with more than 200 virus subtypes.