Signs that a cold is getting better: symptoms, tips

“the common cold” is most commonly used to describe benign, self-limiting viral infections of the upper respiratory tract, he says David Cennimo, MDinfectious disease expert and associate professor of medicine and pediatrics at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. “The most likely cause of your cold is rhinovirus.” That said, there are a few signs to look for when a cold is on its way out.

When the cold comes to an end, you will notice a significant reduction in symptoms such as congestion and sore throat, says Joseph Mercola, DOboard certified family medicine osteopathic physician. “Your energy levels begin to stabilize and you no longer feel tired despite returning to your daily activities. In addition, the frequency of coughing decreases and any residual mucus becomes clearer and less abundant. Your sense of taste and smell also begin to return to normal, signaling that your body is regaining balance.” These signs indicate that your immune system is successfully defeating the viral invader, paving the way for a full recovery, he explains.

Alisha Goodrum, MD, board-certified internal medicine physician PlushCareagrees and says signs that your cold is almost over include:

• Continued improvement in symptoms including nasal congestion, ear pressure, sneezing and coughing
• Improving energy levels
• Cessation of fever

Understanding the progression of a common cold can help you manage your symptoms more effectively, Dr. Mercola says.Typically, he says, a cold progresses through several distinct stages:

Incubation stage: This initial phase occurs shortly after exposure to the virus, usually lasting 1-3 days. You may not feel sick yet, but the virus is starting to replicate in your respiratory system.

Onset of symptoms: Here, you begin to experience the first signs of a cold, such as a sore throat, sneezing, and mild fatigue. This stage marks the body’s initial immune response to infection.

Peak symptoms: Over the next few days, the symptoms intensify. Nasal congestion, cough, headaches and increased fatigue are common. Your body is actively fighting the virus, which can make you feel quite sick.

Recovery phase: Gradually, the symptoms begin to subside. Energy levels improve, congestion decreases and coughing becomes less frequent. Your immune system successfully clears the virus from your system.

Resolution: Most colds resolve in 7-10 days. At this stage, you feel back to your usual self and any lingering symptoms are minimal and manageable.

Recognizing these stages can help you anticipate changes in your condition and adopt appropriate self-care strategies at each stage, notes Dr. Mercola.

Determining the end of a cold involves watching key symptoms subside and the body’s normal functions return, Dr. Mercola says. “When you are no longer cold, you will notice that the nasal congestion has cleared, breathing is easy again and any cough has disappeared. Your throat feels comfortable and your sense of taste and smell are back to normal. In addition, your energy levels return to their usual state and you no longer experience the fatigue or malaise that accompanied the disease.”

Psychologically, you may feel more alert and less burdened by the discomfort that was present during the cold, Dr. Mercola points out. Together, these indicators suggest that your body has successfully fought off the viral infection and that you’re back to your healthy self, he explains.

Resolution of symptoms, including fever, indicates you no longer have a cold, agrees Dr. Goodrum. However, it’s important to remember that a cough can take 4-6 weeks to fully resolve after a cold, she points out. “It’s important to make sure that the cough is getting better and there is a decrease in the frequency of coughing as time passes after the initial development of symptoms,” explains Dr. Goodrum.

The understanding contagious cold period it’s crucial to both your well-being and the well-being of those around you, says Dr. Mercola. “A cold is usually contagious from the day you start feeling sick, which often starts a day before symptoms fully develop. The contagious period can last between 3 and 7 days.” During this time, the virus is most active and can easily be transmitted through respiratory droplets when you cough, sneeze or even talk, explains Dr. Mercola. It is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and using tissues minimize the spread of the virushe advises.

Dr. Cennimo agrees, noting that people are considered contagious as long as they are symptomatic and viruses are spread through droplets and contact. “When people feel sick, they should stay home,” he advises.

While most colds resolve within a week or ten days, there are cases where seeking medical advice would be prudent, Dr. Mercola says. “If symptoms persist for more than two weeks without signs of improvement, it may indicate a more serious condition, such as a bacterial infection or other underlying health problem.” Additionally, if you have severe symptoms such as high fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, or persistent headaches, Dr. Mercola recommends seeing a doctor.

People with compromised immune systems, chronic health conditions, or those who are pregnant should also seek medical attention if cold symptoms persist, Dr. Mercola adds. “Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure you receive the appropriate treatment to restore your health.”

Dr. Goodrum also points out that “if you have symptoms that improve but start to get worse again, you should also see a doctor.”

Remember that the symptoms of a cold can also mimic the flu or COVIDnotes Dr. Goodrum. “Consider taking an over-the-counter flu or COVID test or see your doctor if you have concerns about the disease causing your symptoms,” she advises.