Viral coughs and colds are common at this time of year. If you do not have asthma, COPD or another significant lung condition, most respiratory infections are viral and improve without antibiotics.
Symptoms can include cough, sore throat, blocked/runny nose, fever, headache, aches and tiredness. Rest, drink plenty of fluids and take paracetamol/ibuprofen if suitable for you. A cough can last 2–3 weeks.
Contact your GP if symptoms are worsening or you are not improving after 2–3 weeks.
Seek urgent help if you are struggling to breathe or becoming significantly unwell.
For NHS Inform help and advice click the links for common coughs and colds:
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/common-cold/
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/lungs-and-airways/cough/
For NHS Inform help and advice for children coughs and colds click the links:
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/lungs-and-airways/breathing-problems-in-children/
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/lungs-and-airways/croup/
