How common is runny nose in common cold?

A common cold is a viral infection of the upper airways. Inflammation makes the nasal lining produce more mucus and may cause sneezing, congestion, a scratchy throat, cough, or mild tiredness. Symptoms can change over the course of the illness, so thicker or less clear mucus does not by itself show that antibiotics are needed. A runny nose can overlap with allergy symptoms, but a cold more often arrives with a group of short-lived respiratory symptoms and may follow contact with someone who is unwell.

Drink enough fluid to avoid becoming dehydrated, rest when you can, and use tissues gently to protect the skin around the nostrils. Saline drops or a saline spray may loosen mucus. Warm drinks or humidified air can feel soothing, although very hot steam can burn. Ask a pharmacist about suitable medicines if congestion, pain, or fever is troublesome; check labels carefully to avoid taking the same ingredient in more than one product. Handwashing and covering coughs help reduce spread.

Seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, keep worsening, return after improving, or continue longer than expected. Get urgent care for difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, marked drowsiness, or signs of dehydration such as being unable to keep fluids down. Young children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with long-term conditions may need earlier advice.

How can I tell a cold from allergy symptoms? Which medicines are safe with my current treatment? How should I manage a sore nose? When should I return if the symptoms change?