The common cold (coryza) is a viral infection. Onset of symptoms is gradual, with initial discomfort in the eyes, nose and throat. Symptoms are generally mild to moderate, uncomfortable but not incapacitating, and include hoarse voice, mild cough, sneezing and nasal discharge (rhinorrhoea), often followed by congestion causing headache. In children there may be mild fever, but this is uncommon in adults. Recovery is usually within 4€“10 days.
