3 Ways to Spot Cold Symptoms

1. Catching the Virus

You probably won't even know you've been exposed to a cold virus until 3 to 4 days afterwards, when symptoms begin. A cold is most likely to start with a burning, itchy feeling at the back of your throat or nose, which often comes on suddenly. You may also feel fatigue and a general sense of being "under the weather."

2. The Worst Symptoms Settle In

Within 3 days of catching the virus, you'll have the worst of your symptoms. In the early stages, you'll be sneezing and constantly blowing your nose. Your eyes may water and you may also have a headache. Your nasal passages and sinuses will clog, and you'll feel stuffy as your cold progresses and your mucus becomes thicker and darker. You probably will suffer from a sore throat, which can range from mild to severe, and develop a wracking cough as the cold settles into your respiratory system. While you have these symptoms, stay home and rest for your own sake and because this is the period when you are most contagious.

3. After You Start Feeling Better

The most severe symptoms of a cold virus infection generally only last for 3 to 5 days, but you might have residual congestion and coughing for a week or more. There is usually no need to see a doctor for a cold. However, if your symptoms get worse after 3 to 5 days, you develop a fever of 101 degrees F or more, or have an earache or severe sore throat, you may have the flu or a bacterial infection rather than a cold. In that case, you should see a doctor. Contact your health care professional immediately if you contract a cold when you are pregnant or if the cold victim is an infant.