Cold without a runny nose: what it means

A common cold may begin with a scratchy throat, cough, blocked nose, tiredness or mild fever, while nasal drainage is absent or brief. Symptoms can vary during the illness. Influenza often causes a more sudden, intense illness with fever, body aches and marked fatigue. COVID-19 can cause sore throat, cough, fever, tiredness or changes in smell, with or without nasal symptoms. Allergic rhinitis and dust-mite or pet allergy can affect the nose and throat, but usually follow a repeated exposure pattern. Sinusitis may cause facial pressure and thick mucus.

Rest, drink enough fluids to avoid dry mouth and dark urine, and use warm drinks or lozenges for throat comfort if suitable for you. Avoid smoking and close contact with people who are unwell while you have respiratory symptoms. Follow local advice about testing when COVID-19 is a possibility. A pharmacist can help you choose symptom relief that fits your health conditions and other medicines.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, fainting, severe dehydration, or a blue-grey colour around the lips. Arrange medical advice if symptoms are getting worse, last longer than expected, or you have a condition that raises the risk from respiratory infections. Seek prompt review for severe facial pain, eye swelling or a persistent high fever.

Could my symptoms fit a cold, influenza, COVID-19 or allergy? Do I need testing or a chest examination? Which medicines are safe with my existing treatment?