A cold typically lasts 7 to 10 days. In adults over 65, symptoms can linger longer, and a cold carries a higher risk of complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Rest, fluids, and watching for warning signs are key, and a doctor should be called if symptoms worsen or last beyond 10 days.

Key Takeaways

• A cold typically lasts 7 to 10 days from the first onset of symptoms.
• In adults over 65, a cold can linger two weeks or more and carries a higher risk of complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
• Cold symptoms come on gradually and rarely include fever; flu symptoms start abruptly with fever and body aches.
• Rest, plenty of fluids, a humidifier, and a nutritious diet help the body recover.
• Call a doctor if a senior's cold lasts more than 10 days, gets worse, or includes fever, trouble breathing, or confusion.

Colds circulate all year, but they peak in fall and winter, when people spend more time indoors and gather with family and friends. Especially during the holiday season, people are often more aware when they begin to experience symptoms of illness. They know they'll be socializing more with loved ones, and they want to avoid spreading contagion to others.

If a person does become sick, at least initially, it can be challenging to determine if their symptoms stem from a cold or the flu. Understanding the symptoms associated with these two common illnesses means a person will be that much better equipped to treat and clear their illness.

Similarities and Differences Between a Cold and the Flu

Colds and the flu share several symptoms, including sore throat, stuffy nose, sneezing, and coughing. The differences show up in how symptoms start and how severe they get:

To summarize, if your symptoms come on gradually, you don't have a fever, and your body aches are mild or non-existent, you probably have a cold.

How Long Does a Cold Usually Last?

A cold typically lasts 7-10 days from the first onset of symptoms. This timespan is generally true for people of all ages.

How Long Does a Cold Last in the Elderly?

In adults over 65, a cold often lasts longer than the usual 7 to 10 days and can take two weeks or more to fully clear. The immune system weakens with age, which slows recovery and raises the risk that a cold turns into something more serious.

The risk is highest for seniors who already live with conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, or a weakened immune system. For them, a lingering cold can develop into bronchitis or pneumonia, which are far more dangerous for older adults than the cold itself.

Prevention matters as much as treatment. See our guide to immunizations and vaccines that are important for senior adults. 

When Should a Senior See a Doctor About a Cold?

Call a doctor if an older adult with a cold has any of the following:

• Symptoms that last longer than 10 days, or get worse instead of better
• A fever above 101°F, or any fever that goes away and comes back
• Trouble breathing, wheezing, or chest pain
• Confusion, dizziness, or unusual drowsiness
• Signs of dehydration, such as dark urine or lightheadedness when standing
• Worsening of an existing condition such as asthma, COPD, or diabetes

How to Relieve/Shorten Cold Symptoms

As with many health issues, it's always important to get sufficient rest when dealing with a rhinovirus. Getting enough rest when ill helps equip the body's immune system to fight off the virus. Other useful self-care tips include:

• Drinking plenty of non-caffeinated beverages to stay well-hydrated
• Eating a nutritious diet
• Using a room humidifier to help keep nasal passages moist
• Drinking hot beverages such as tea, lemon water with honey, or broth to help ease sore throat symptoms
• Sleeping with the head slightly elevated to help relieve congestion
• Using cough drops to soothe a sore throat (sugar-free cough drops are available for diabetics)
• For headache/body pain, aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen are good options

When Is a Person No Longer Contagious?

When a person has a cold, they're most contagious within the first four days after the onset of symptoms. However, as long as a person is still experiencing symptoms, it's still possible to pass the virus to others. As mentioned, cold symptoms generally last 7-10 days. The best way to avoid passing along a cold virus is to try to avoid personal contact with others, at least for the first few days. After day four, the risk of passing the virus is lower, although it's still a good idea to practice good hand-washing techniques and avoid touching one's nose and mouth when around other people.

Senior Helpers of Orlando

If you or a loved one needs assistance, Senior Helpers of Orlando offers a host of helpful services for seniors. We assist with transportation services, meal preparation, help with hobbies, and so much more. In addition to serving the Orlando area, we also serve clients in Winter Park, Kissimmee, and Apopka. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a cold contagious?

You are most contagious during the first four days after symptoms start, but you can pass the virus for as long as symptoms last, usually 7 to 10 days. Hand washing and limiting close contact help protect others.

How can you tell a cold from the flu?

Cold symptoms come on gradually and rarely include fever. Flu symptoms start abruptly and usually include a high fever, significant body aches, and chest discomfort.

How long does a cold last in the elderly?

Often longer than the typical 7 to 10 days, sometimes two weeks or more. The immune system weakens with age, so recovery is slower and complications like bronchitis or pneumonia are more likely.

When should an older adult see a doctor about a cold?

If symptoms last more than 10 days, get worse instead of better, or include fever, trouble breathing, confusion, or chest pain. Seniors with conditions like asthma, COPD, or heart disease should call sooner.