A symptom is something that you feel or experience and that may indicate a disease or condition. Unlike signs, which can be observed by other people and recorded on medical tests, symptoms are subjective, based on your opinion or feelings and are only reported by you.
Some diseases and conditions don’t have any symptoms at all, while others have mild or severe ones. Symptoms can help you know when to contact your healthcare provider.
Common Cold
Viruses that cause colds spread through airborne droplets (coughed or sneezed) or by sharing objects like toys, towels or dishes with someone who has the illness. You can also get a cold by touching your eyes, nose or mouth after coughing or sneezing and then touching other people or surfaces like doorknobs. Colds usually last about 7-10 days.
If you have symptoms of a cold, drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Cough suppressants such as dextromethorphan (Robitussin(r) and Vicks DayQuil Cough(r)) and codeine can reduce coughing. Expectorants, such as guaifenesin (Mucinex(r)), can help thin and loosen mucus in your throat.
Contact your healthcare provider if you have any unusual signs or symptoms such as blood in the urine, stools or coughing up blood. These are warning signs of serious illness and need to be treated as soon as possible.