The common cold is an infection of the head and chest, caused by a virus. It can affect your nose, throat, sinuses, ears, tube that connects the middle ear and the throat, windpipe, voice box, and bronchial tubes.
Viruses are germs that cause infections.
Over 200 different viruses can cause colds. The infection is spread when viruses are passed to others by sneezing, coughing, and personal contact. There is no specific test. Your doctor will make the diagnosis based on your symptoms and a physical exam. There are no medicines that cure the common cold.