After a cold, symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion often occur, as well as discomfort in the throat and coughing. So, how long does a cold cough last? Generally, the natural course of a cold is about one week. Therefore, from this perspective, a cold-related cough can get better in about a week. However, it is important to rest, avoid getting chilled, drink plenty of water, eat a light diet, quit smoking, and ensure the room is well-ventilated to aid recovery.