Common cold
A common cold is usually a viral upper respiratory infection. Severe or prolonged symptoms require consideration of other conditions.
What is this condition?
A common cold is usually a viral upper respiratory infection. Severe or prolonged symptoms require consideration of other conditions.
Main symptoms
A runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever or tiredness.
Causes
Different respiratory viruses can cause similar symptoms. A bacterial complication or another illness may sometimes be present.
When to see a clinician
Seek advice for persistent high fever, worsening after initial improvement, or severe ear, throat or facial pain. Infants, pregnant patients and people with relevant medical conditions should seek earlier advice.
Examination and tests
We assess the symptoms and examine the ears, nose and throat as needed. Tests are considered when they could affect management.
Tests are selected according to your symptoms and examination. Specialist tests or procedures may require referral.
Treatment
Rest, fluids and suitable symptom relief are often appropriate. Antibiotics do not treat the cold virus itself.
These are general treatment options. Your clinician will discuss which approach fits your condition; not every treatment described is provided at this clinic.
What you can do at home
Rest, wash hands and use medicines according to instructions. Avoid combining products with the same ingredients.
Frequently asked questions
Do antibiotics make a cold go away faster?
They do not treat viruses. They may be considered only if a separate bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed.
What should I tell the clinician?
Tell us when symptoms began, whether they are changing, your medicines and allergies, and any relevant medical conditions. For a child, describe changes in feeding, sleep or response to sound.
Related symptoms and conditions
Visiting Honda ENT Clinic
Check temporary changes
| Day | Morning | Afternoon |
|---|---|---|
| Mon / Tue / Wed / Fri | 9:00–12:30 | 15:00–18:20 |
| Saturday | 9:00–11:00 | 14:00–16:00 |
| Closed | Thursday, Sunday and public holidays | |
Reception opens 15 minutes before each session. Walk-ins are welcome for general consultations. Vaccinations may require an appointment.
Please call before visiting if you have a fever of 37.5°C or higher, a recent positive infection test, a household member with an infection, or would like infection testing. The waiting-time service is in Japanese.
Schedules can change. Check clinic news or call before travelling.
About this information and references
This information is published by Honda ENT Clinic and is intended as general guidance. Individual diagnosis and treatment require a clinical assessment. Updated: 6 October 2026.
About Medical Director Dr. Yusuke Honda