The common cold is a viral rather than a bacterial infection. This means that antibiotics have no effect on its symptoms, nor do they help the infection go away. The only way to treat a cold is to treat its symptoms, so that cold sufferers feel more comfortable as their body attacks the virus.
Inhaling Steam
Placing the head over a bowl of steaming hot water, with a towel over the head, and breathing in the steam deeply can help loosen the mucus responsible for both nasal and chest congestion. Small children may burn themselves doing this; an alternative steam treatment is to run a hot shower, close the door and sit in this room, allowing them to breathe in the steam.
Drinking Fluids
Drinking an increased amount of fluids keeps a person hydrated, as fluids are lost through fever and mucus production, according to MayoClinic.com. The best choice is water, although clear juices and broth are acceptable also.
People with a sore throat may find that drinking warm beverages, such as hot tea with lemon and honey, works well for soothing the throat.
Gargling
Gargling with warm salt water soothes the pain of a sore throat. Cold sufferers can fill a glass with eight ounces of water and mix in a 1/2 tsp. of salt. Once the salt dissolves, patients gargle and rinse, repeating until the glass is empty. This can be done every two hours.
Using Saline Nasal Drops
Saline nasal drops are safe for people of all ages, including infants. These drops help moisten the membranes of the nose, relieving nasal congestion temporarily. After inserting the drops into the nostril, a bulb syringe can be used to remove the mucus, particularly in babies who cannot be told to blow the nose.
Adjusting Temperature and Humidity
To relieve symptoms, patients can adjust the temperature in their home to be comfortable but not overheated. A cool-mist humidifier is helpful for adding moisture in the air as well.
Rest
For the body's immune system to beat an infection, it must be strong enough to do so. Resting, especially when a fever accompanies a cold, assists the body in fighting the infection.
