Common Symptoms of a ColdRunny or stuffy noseSneezingSore or scratchy throatCoughMild headachesFatigue or feeling generally unwellMuscle achesLow-grade fever (more common in children)Hoarse voiceLoss of taste and smellPressure in the ears and faceSymptoms usually appear 1 to 3 days after exposure to the virus, peak within 2 to 4 days, and typically last about a week. Some symptoms, like cough, may linger longer, especially in children.