How long does a GP consultation take to work for a common cold?

The GP may ask about blocked or runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever, breathing and how symptoms are changing. They may examine your throat, ears, chest or glands. This helps separate an uncomplicated cold from problems such as a chest infection, asthma flare or another illness. Advice may be the main treatment when symptoms are mild.

Rest when needed, drink enough to avoid dehydration and use only medicines that are suitable for you and taken as directed. Ask the GP or pharmacist before combining cold remedies, especially if you take regular medicines or have a long-term condition. Note whether fever, breathing, pain or hydration is improving, and follow any review advice.

Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, confusion, blue lips or inability to keep fluids down. Contact a clinician if symptoms are getting worse rather than settling, fever persists, you become unusually drowsy, or an existing heart or lung condition is harder to control.

Ask whether your examination suggests a simple cold, which symptom treatments are safe for you, what improvement to expect, and when to arrange another review. Ask what changes would suggest a chest infection or another condition.