Is this just a cold or what?

In my part of the country it could be allergy. You might have one even if you never had one before. They can start any time. It causes junk to collect in your sinuses and drain into your chest. It might feel like a cold or a flu but without a fever. The problem is if you let that junk collect in your chest too long it will create the ideal environment for a bacterial infection. I manage my allergies with over-the-counter decongestants and antihistimines. I also gargle and snort a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water to kill whatever germs might be congregating in the nose and throat. A good clue that you have allergies is if your eyes itch. The best thing to do is see a doctor and find out what you are really dealing with.