If a provider is seen, he or she will examine the person's head, neck, and lungs. The provider will also look for signs and symptoms of more serious respiratory illnesses, such as pneumonia or bronchitis . Most colds resolve within 7 to 10 days. Some people will develop complications, such as a sinus infection , ear infection , or long-term cough . People who have breathing difficulties or lung conditions, such as asthma , are more likely to develop complications.
Most colds are highly contagious.
They are transmitted through respiratory secretions. Sneezing and coughing can spread these droplets. The germ can also be passed on when an individual touches his or her nose and then handles an object that another person later touches. The second person can then pick up the germ from the object and transfer it into his or her own respiratory tract by bringing the hand to the face. Colds are generally treated by addressing the person's symptoms.