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  HelloLife Guest Topic Started July 15 2011 at 1:53 pm Favorite 0

  It seems like I’ve been sick for a long time now. How long do most colds last?

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  Dr. Jeff Chamberlain, MD Answered by Health Coach Dr. Jeff Chamberlain, MD
  July 15 2011 at 2:22 pm

  Colds typically peak out at 2 to 5 days after onset of symptoms then fade away - usually lasting a total of about 7 to 10 days. (Although the post viral cough can hang on for another week or two.) A lot of people (including doctors) incorrectly think that a lingering cough after a viral infection is a sure sign of bacterial bronchitis. Most of the time however, as long as there are no other symptoms, a lingering cough after a viral infection, although annoying, is just a cough. Antibiotics are not needed.

  Stay Healthy, Dr. Jeff

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