Sore throat, cough, stuffy nose, sneezing, runny nose, fever, chills, and muscle aches are all symptoms associated with the common cold. Over the counter medicines for a cold only alleviate cold symptoms but do not shorten the duration of a cold. The symptoms of a common cold should go away in a week to 10 days. As always, drinking plenty of fluids and rest are most important for recovery from a cold.

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