A cold is a very common mild viral infection. You can often treat a cold without seeing a general practitioner. You should begin to feel better in about 1 to 2 weeks.
Symptoms
- A blocked or runny nose
- Sneezing
- A sore throat
- A hoarse voice
- A cough
- Feeling tired and unwell
- A high temperature
- Aching muscles
- A loss of taste and smell
- A feeling of pressure in your ears and face
How to recover at home
- Get plenty of rest
- Drink lots of fluid, such as water, to avoid dehydration
- Eat healthy food
- Gargle salt water to soothe a sore throat
- Drink a hot lemon and honey drink to soothe a sore throat
- Breathe in steam to ease a blocked nose
- Pharmacy relief options
Medicines like paracetamol or ibuprofen - Decongestant nasal sprays, drops or tablets
- Vapour rubs
Tips for preventing a cold
- Washing your hands with warm water and soap
- Not sharing towels or household items with someone who has a cold
- Not touching your eyes or nose in case you've come into contact with the virus
- Staying fit and healthy
If you have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to do your normal activities, try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people until you feel better.
