Most people with a common cold can be diagnosed by their signs and symptoms and in general, you don’t need to see the doctor for a common cold and can self-care at home.

Most cases of the common cold get better without treatment, usually within a week to 10 days. But a cough may linger for a few more days.

The best thing you can do is take care of yourself while your body heals. For example, drink plenty of liquids, use of over the counter (OTC) medication to reduce fever, body aches, congestion and cough.

Antibiotics are of no use against cold viruses and shouldn’t be used unless there’s a bacterial infection.