A cold is a harmless viral infection of the upper respiratory tract — a runny nose, scratchy throat, cough, and a mild feeling of being unwell are all part of it. It usually starts with a scratchy throat, progresses to a runny or blocked nose, and clears up on its own within one to two weeks. Adults go through several such infections per year, which is completely normal. It is especially important to give your body some rest and to keep an eye on how it develops.
Possible causes
Cold viruses
The vast majority of colds are caused by a large group of different viruses that are transmitted via droplets and hands. Because so many different pathogens are in circulation, one infection often follows another, especially during the cold season.
Dry indoor air and irritation
Heated, dry air dries out the mucous membranes and makes them more susceptible. An irritated throat and cough can persist longer as a result, even when the actual infection is already subsiding.
Weakened immune system
Lack of sleep, stress and cold can temporarily lower your body's defences, making it easier for an infection to take hold. This explains why colds occur more frequently during stressful periods.
Typical steps at the doctor's office
- 1Your doctor will ask about the onset and progression of your symptoms, listen to your lungs if necessary, and examine your throat and ears to distinguish a harmless cold from an infection requiring treatment.
- 2In the vast majority of cases, no further tests are needed; if you have a high or persistent fever, or ear or sinus symptoms, your doctor will take a closer look.
- 3Management is usually watchful and supportive: your body heals the infection on its own, and treatment mainly focuses on relieving symptoms. Antibiotics don't work for a viral cold and are therefore not used.
What you can do yourself
- Allow yourself to rest and take it easy, especially in the first few days — your body needs energy to overcome the infection.
- Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or tea; this keeps your mucous membranes moist and soothes your throat.
- Moist, warm air — for example after showering or with a humidifier — is experienced by many as pleasant; there is no proven benefit. Bowls of very hot water are not advisable due to the risk of scalding, especially with children.
- Air out your rooms regularly and wash your hands frequently to avoid spreading the infection to others as much as possible.
It makes sense to see a doctor if your symptoms don't improve after about one to two weeks, if you have a high fever persisting for several days, or if your condition deteriorates significantly after initial improvement. Your general practitioner is also the right point of contact if you have severe ear or sinus pain, or if you feel uncertain.
Frequently asked questions
- Do antibiotics help with a cold?
- No. A cold is caused by viruses, and antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. They are only used if, exceptionally, a bacterial complication occurs — your doctor will decide this on a case-by-case basis.
- How long does a cold last?
- Symptoms usually resolve on their own within one to two weeks. A tickly cough may linger a bit longer afterwards without this being cause for concern.
- Can I exercise when I have a cold?
- With mild symptoms and no fever, moderate exercise is usually safe. However, if you have a fever, body aches or feel very unwell, you should take a break and allow your body to rest.
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