Without treatment, a cold will improve in a week or two.
Colds are the most common illness among children.
Although youngsters often feel better within 3 or 4 days of developing the infection, they may continue coughing for 2 to 3 weeks. Many children have 6 colds a year. Causes Colds are caused by viruses. They can spread easily, especially during the first 3 or 4 days of illness. You can catch a cold at home, work, school, or day care by touching someone who has one, or by being nearby when an infected person coughs or sneezes.