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How long does a cold last?

How long does a cold last?

After a week of sneezing, coughing and sniffling, you are fed up and you just want to know:how long does a cold last?

In a nutshell:the symptoms

A cold is caused by a virus. You start coughing and sneezing, have a sore throat, are snotty and sometimes you have watery eyes – but you don't really feel sick.

Read also: Am I cold or allergic?

The average duration of a cold

On average, a cold is gone within one to one and a half weeks, your body clears the virus on its own. Cough syrup and honey can soothe your throat and nasal drops help to dissolve stuck mucus in your sinuses. Sometimes a cold lasts longer than a week. If you have a low resistance, your body has more trouble getting rid of the virus.

When should I go to the doctor with a cold?

Only if it lasts longer than three weeks and the usual remedies do not help or you develop other complaints such as pain, fever and nausea, the doctor may be able to do something for you. This applies if you are normally fit and healthy.