For most colds, medications and other remedies can’t cure you, but they can offer some relief from symptoms, such as a scratchy throat, stuffy nose or congestion, while your body fights the virus.
If you have a cold and cough, taking over-the-counter medicines can help relieve the symptoms. Look for a medicine that has a pain reliever for body aches or headaches, and one that can also help with cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, body ache and other flu and cold symptoms. Products such as Dayquil and Nyquil don’t prevent the flu but are made to treat multiple symptoms.
Sleep and rest are important to help you get better, so if you’re having trouble getting a good night’s sleep, you can take nighttime version of the medicine.
If you have the flu, your doctor might prescribe Tamiflu, an antiviral medication. But it must be taken very early on.
