As the cold virus infects the upper respiratory tract, this is where the main symptoms occur. A blocked or runny nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat, loss of taste and smell, watery eyes and a feeling of pressure in the ears are all common symptoms. Headache, achiness and a raised temperature may also occur as the body works to fight the infection. Children are more likely than adults to have a raised temperature. Babies may be restless and irritable, not feed or sleep as well as usual due to nasal congestion, and be sick as a result of coughing.

Symptoms usually last about a week, although some symptoms – cough in particular – may last up to a fortnight or longer. 

Did you know?

The symptoms of common cold are usually at their worst during the first two to three days.