Q. What is the duration of a cold?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
The duration of a cold can vary from person to person and depends on various factors like your immune system, the specific virus causing the cold, and how well you take care of yourself during the illness. Typically, a cold lasts about 7 to 10 days for most people. However, some colds might linger for a bit longer, especially if your immune system is weakened or if you're exposed to other infections while you're already sick. It's important to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and consider over-the-counter remedies to alleviate symptoms if needed. If your cold persists for more than two weeks or if you have severe symptoms, it's a good idea to check in with a healthcare professional.