How long does a cold last?

According to Healthline, a typical cold lasts about 10 days. A cold is an upper respiratory tract infection caused by a virus. Symptoms include a runny nose, sore throat, coughing, sneezing, fatigue and congestion.

Healthline says that most people are contagious for several days before they begin to exhibit symptoms of a cold. The first symptoms are usually a tickling sensation in the throat and more mucus than normal in the nasal passages. Symptoms gradually worsen through day six. Nasal symptoms are at their worst on days four to six. By day 10, symptoms should start to clear up. A few lingering symptoms to day 14 are normal.