Question 1

what is the duration of the common cold?

Accepted Answer

Varies : The common cold usually last 5-7 days, with symptoms ocassionally lasting 10-14 days. See your doctor if you don't see improvement, or if you note worsening.

Question 2

how long could common cold last?

Accepted Answer

The common cold: According to the mayo clinic, colds usually last one to two weeks.

Question 3

how long does the common cold typically last?

Accepted Answer

7 -10 days: Most common colds resolve within 7 to 10 days.  Colds that last longer may have become complicated with an ear infection (acute otitis media) or sinusitis.

Question 4

approximately how long does a common cold last?

Accepted Answer

Colds arn't cured: The average common cold last 10 days
measures such as increasing fluids getting appropriate rest blowing your nose sucking on candy using a humidifier can help make you more comfortable. If the symptoms really interfere with eating sleeping normal activity saline washes or otc decongestant sprays/tabs/or syrups can provide short term relief.

Question 5

how long will the common cold usually last for?

Accepted Answer

7-10 days: The gold standard answer is most viruses last 7-10 days however could be over in as little as 3 or long as 14 days.

Question 6

normally, how long would the common cold usually last for?

Accepted Answer

Less than 5-7 days: Most viral upper respiratory infection will resolve within 5-7 days.  If symptoms persist beyond this length of time, or there is a worsening of symptoms after an initial improvement, it may have progressed into a bacterial infection.  This is the usual pathway in the development of a sinus infection, as an example.

Question 7

how long does a common cold last and how to make it go away even faster?

Accepted Answer

It runs it's course.: According to the mayo clinic, colds usually last one to two weeks. Tips: sore throat – gargle with warm salt water (1/2 tsp salt in 8 oz of water). Get strep test/culture if very sore. Congestion – saline nose drops or netti pot. For anti-inflammatory effect & mobilizing mucus- homemade chicken noodle soup.  Hydrate- lots of water/clear broth/ add honey & a small amt. Of lemon juice to chamomile &gt;.

Question 8

how long should a common cold last? i've had mine for 3 days! is this normal?

Accepted Answer

Yes: According to the mayo clinic, colds usually last one to two weeks.

Question 9

how long does a common cold congestion last?

Accepted Answer

Wait: The zinc in coldeze may shorten the duration of a cold by a day or so.  Symptomatic treatment will make you feel better.  Throat lozenges for sore throat, oral pseudephedrine or topical neosynephrine for nasal congestion, Robitussin-DM for cough and tylenol (acetaminophen) for pain and discomfort when needed are what i recommend.  There is no medical cure but wait 7 days and it will be gone.

Question 10

how long is a common cold contagious for? and are we contagious even before symptoms appear?

Accepted Answer

Up to 10 days: Peak viral shedding is on days 2-5. Once symptoms have resolved, patients are no longer infectious. Incubation period is typically 24-48 hours, but may be as short  as 12 hours. Virus isn't usually shed until symptoms appear. Thanks for trusting HealthTap!

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