Eating curd during a cold increases phlegm and makes the cold worse.

fact_checkWhat experts say

• infoColds are caused by many different respiratory viruses.1
• infoCommon cold symptoms include runny nose, blocked nose, cough, sneezing, sore throat, headache, mild body aches and sometimes mild fever.1
• infoColds usually last less than a week.1
• infoCold viruses spread through droplets from coughs and sneezes, and by touching contaminated surfaces and then the eyes, nose or mouth.1
• infoSome people have a higher risk of severe illness from respiratory viruses: infants, older adults, people with long-term illness and people with weak immunity.1

checklistWhat to do

• check_circleIf you have cold-like symptoms and think it could be COVID-19 or flu, get tested, especially if you are at higher risk.1
• check_circleIf you are at higher risk, ask a doctor about early treatment for COVID-19 or flu, because antiviral medicines work best when started soon after symptoms begin.1
• check_circleStay away from people who are coughing or sneezing.1
• check_circleDo not touch your eyes, nose or mouth after touching surfaces.1

menu_bookSources

1. 1About Common Coldcdc.govopen_in_new

Updated 22 Oct 2026