Common Cold
Are you feeling sniffly and stuffy? WellNow Urgent Care is here to help when those pesky cold symptoms come your way. Our providers offer quick, quality care to help you feel better — so you can get back to being well, now.
What is a cold?
The common cold is the illness that people experience most over the course of their lives. Common colds, including head and chest colds, are caused by viruses that can be contracted from work, school, the gym — just about anywhere.
The most frequent cause of the common cold is the rhinovirus, which can occur all year, but is most prevalent in early fall and spring.
Common Cold Symptoms
Average cold symptoms include:
Chest and nasal congestion
Hacking cough
Runny or stuffy nose
Sneezing
Sore throat
Common Cold Treatment
Because the common cold can be caused by more than 200 different viruses, there is no cure or vaccine for the cold. While your body fights the virus, there are ways to help your immune system and lessen your symptoms.How can I treat a cold at home?
Get plenty of rest
Stay hydrated by drinking water
Gargle salt water to help a sore throat
Relieve congestion using a humidifier (that has been cleaned and properly maintained)
Eat healthy, nutritious foods
Ease aches and pains with a warm bath
If your symptoms are bothering you despite these home remedies, many over-the-counter medications can help ease your symptoms. Always talk to a pharmacist or your doctor if you have questions about your medications, including over-the-counter drugs.
How do I know if I have the common cold?
The common cold has several symptoms that are often similar to other illnesses. If you feel unwell but are unsure of the cause, visit a WellNow Urgent Care clinic near you. Our dedicated medical team will help diagnose you and find proper treatment.Is my cough actually a cold?
A cough can be a symptom of several illnesses and conditions, from the flu to allergies to indigestion. If you have a persistent cough, it may be worth treating with a medical provider.
Do I have the flu?
While there are several similar symptoms, the flu (influenza) tends to be more severe than a cold. Common symptoms include:
Chills
Cough and/or chest discomfort
Fatigue or weakness for up to 2-3 weeks
Fever
Headache
General aches and pains
Runny nose
Sore throat
Do I have COVID-19?
COVID-19 symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus, ranging from mild to severe. Possible symptoms include:
Fever or chills
Cough
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Fatigue
Muscle or body aches
Headache
New loss of taste or smell
Sore throat
Congestion or runny nose
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea
Common Cold FAQs
What should I do if my Child has a cold?
If your child is under the age of 2, over-the-counter medications are not recommended. Instead, try using natural home remedies such as rest, hydration, healthy foods, warm baths, humidifiers and saline nose drops.
How can I protect myself and others from catching a cold?
The simplest way to avoid catching a cold is to practice safe and effective hygiene.
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Take 30 seconds to scrub every part of your hands.
Avoid close contact with anyone who has a cold or respiratory symptoms. Stay home if you're sick.
Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose and mouth.
Cover your mouth when you sneeze and encourage others to do the same.
Clean toys and surfaces regularly to help remove viruses from the objects you touch at home and at work.
How long should a cold last?
For most people, a cold will last for about 7-10 days. However, some symptoms can linger for 14 days or longer. Learn more about treating the common cold.
When should you visit urgent care for common cold diagnosis treatment?
If you are feeling unwell and would like help understanding your symptoms and how best to treat them, check in online or walk in to a WellNow location nearest you.
This medical information has been reviewed for accuracy by Dr. Robert Biernbaum, Chief Medical Officer for WellNow Urgent Care.
Illnesses We Treat
WellNow Urgent Care treats a variety of illnesses, infections and diseases along with their
associated symptoms. If you are feeling uncomfortable or unwell, our dedicated medical
team is prepared to deliver a personalized and tailored treatment plan to help you get
better, faster.
This list contains our most commonly treated illnesses and symptoms. If you are
experiencing an illness not listed or are unsure of the source of your discomfort, visit a
WellNow location near you or start a virtual care session.