Common Cold Care in Gangnam, Seoul
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, MD · Board-certified otolaryngologist · Former professor, Yonsei & Ajou University · Consultations in English
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The common cold is a viral infection of the nose and throat, most often caused by rhinoviruses, producing a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, sore throat and mild cough. It usually resolves within 7–10 days without antibiotics. Care focuses on rest, fluids and symptom relief; see an ENT if symptoms persist, worsen, or affect the ears or sinuses.
What is the common cold?
The common cold is an acute viral upper respiratory tract infection. More than 200 viruses can cause it, with rhinoviruses the most frequent, followed by seasonal coronaviruses, adenoviruses and others. Adults typically catch two to three colds a year, and children more. Colds spread through droplets and contaminated hands and surfaces.
Symptoms
- Sore or scratchy throat, often the first sign
- Sneezing, runny nose and nasal congestion
- Mild cough
- Low-grade fever, more common in children
- Mild fatigue and headache
- Reduced smell during congestion
Symptoms usually peak around days two to three and settle within 7 to 10 days, though a cough can linger longer.
Cold, flu or something else?
Influenza tends to start suddenly with high fever, body aches and exhaustion. Allergic rhinitis causes itching and sneezing without fever and persists as long as exposure continues. A cold that lasts longer than expected may have led to acute sinusitis or, in children especially, acute middle ear infection.
How it is assessed at our Gangnam clinic
Most colds do not need tests. When you visit, Dr. Kim examines the nose, throat and ears and, if symptoms suggest a complication, uses nasal endoscopy to check for pus from the sinuses. During flu season, a flu rapid antigen test can distinguish influenza, which matters because antiviral treatment works best if started early.
Treatment and self-care
There is no cure for the cold virus; antibiotics do not help. Care aims to relieve symptoms while your immune system clears the infection:
- Rest and plenty of fluids
- Saline nasal spray or rinses to ease congestion
- Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for sore throat, headache and fever
- Short-term decongestants, used for no more than about three days
- Honey and warm drinks for cough in adults and children over one year
- A humidifier during dry Seoul winters
Some adults who need to keep working choose supportive intravenous fluids and vitamins, such as a cold and flu IV, given in private single rooms at our clinic in about 30 minutes. This can help hydration but does not shorten the viral infection, and we never recommend IV therapy that is not needed. A yearly flu vaccination protects against influenza, though not against colds.
Prevention
Wash hands frequently, avoid touching your eyes and nose, and wear a mask in crowded places when you are unwell, as is common practice in Korea.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if symptoms last more than 10 days, improve and then worsen, or come with ear pain, facial pain or a high fever. Seek urgent care for shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, severe sore throat with difficulty swallowing or drooling, or a stiff neck.
Seeing Dr. Kim in English
Dr. Kim Yoo Suk is a board-certified otolaryngologist and former Yonsei and Ajou professor who sees everyday ENT problems as well as complex nasal disease, in English. Walk-ins and calls are welcome, and an English medical certificate can be issued for work or school; see our guide for international patients.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need antibiotics for a cold?
No. Colds are caused by viruses, and antibiotics only act on bacteria. Taking them for a cold does not speed recovery and can cause side effects and resistance. They are considered only if a bacterial complication, such as sinusitis or ear infection, develops.
How long am I contagious with a cold?
You are most contagious in the first two to three days of symptoms, but can spread the virus for up to about a week. Hand washing, covering coughs and wearing a mask reduce the risk of passing it to colleagues and family.
Will a cold and flu IV cure my cold faster?
An IV can provide fluids and vitamins and may make some people feel more comfortable, but it does not kill the virus or reliably shorten a cold. Rest and fluids by mouth are enough for most people. Dr. Kim will advise whether it is appropriate for you.
Your doctor
Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, MD
Board-certified otolaryngologist (ENT). Former clinical assistant professor at Yonsei University and assistant professor at Ajou University School of Medicine. Nose & sinus subspecialist who treats all ear, nose and throat conditions.
Consultations in English. Guide for international patients →
Visit us in Gangnam
2F HS Tower, 703 Seolleung-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Gangnam-gu Office Station (Line 7 / Suin-Bundang), Exit 3-1
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 9:00–19:00
Wed 14:00–19:00 · Sat 9:00–14:00
Closed Sundays & public holidays
This page is general medical information written and reviewed by an ENT specialist. It is not a diagnosis. Symptoms differ between people — please see a doctor for an examination. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.