Severe common cold: what to know

The common cold is a viral infection of the upper airways. A blocked or runny nose, sore throat, cough, tiredness, and mild fever can make a person feel very unwell, especially a young child or someone with another health condition. Symptoms may irritate the sinuses, throat, or ears. A cough that becomes deep or persistent can also occur with acute bronchitis. Symptoms that improve and then clearly worsen, or new severe localised pain, can point to a complication such as sinusitis or a middle-ear infection.

Rest, drink regularly, and use warm fluids or saline nasal measures for comfort. A humidified room may ease irritation, while avoiding smoke protects inflamed airways. Use paracetamol or another suitable medicine only according to the label and personal medical advice; check combination products to prevent doubling ingredients. Antibiotics do not treat an uncomplicated viral cold. Keep distance from vulnerable people while symptoms are active, wash hands, and cover coughs.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, chest pain, blue lips, confusion, severe weakness, or inability to keep fluids down. Arrange prompt review for dehydration, a very unwell child, a persistent high fever, severe ear or facial pain, or symptoms that worsen after initial improvement. A barking cough or noisy breathing in a child needs assessment, particularly if breathing is laboured. People with significant lung, heart, or immune conditions should seek advice earlier.

Ask whether your symptoms fit a common cold, which medicines are suitable, how to recognise a complication, and when it is safe to return to work, school, or childcare.