Cold remedies are almost as common as the common cold. But do they work? Nothing can cure a cold, which is caused by germs called viruses. But some remedies might help ease your symptoms and keep you from feeling so bad. Here's a look at some common cold remedies and what's known about them.
Sick with a a cold, flu or other respiratory virus? Learn some home management tips from a Mayo Clinic family medicine physician.
Some cold remedies contain multiple ingredients, such as a decongestant plus a pain reliever, so read the labels of cold medications you take to make sure you're not taking too much of any medication. Cold remedies that don't work The list of ineffective cold remedies is long. Some of the more common ones that don't work include: Antibiotics.
Most people recover from a common cold in 7 to 10 days. Symptoms might last longer in people who smoke. Most often, you don't need medical care for a common cold. If symptoms don't get better or if they get worse, see your health care provider. Illnesses of the nose and throat caused by germs are called upper respiratory tract infections.
Treatment There's no cure for the common cold. Most cases of the common cold get better without treatment within 7 to 10 days. But a cough may last a few more days. The best thing you can do is take care of yourself while your body heals. Care tips include: Rest. Drink plenty of liquids. Humidify the air. Use saline nasal rinses. Antibiotics do not treat cold viruses. They are used to treat ...