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The "common" cold is just that: one of the most common illnesses encountered in the population, Although it is usually mild and lasts only about a week, the common cold is the leading cause of doctor visits and missed school and work days. Colds are mostly seen in children. On average children will have six to eight colds per year. In families where children attend school the incidence can be as high as 12 per year. Adults average between two to four colds per year, although women tend to develop more colds than men. Symptoms usually include stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, hacking cough, sinus congestion or earache, minor aches/pains and mild fatigue/weakness. Colds rarely cause a major fever or headaches. Symptoms usually start two to three days after infection.