While the cure for the common cold remains an elusive mystery in medical science, several home remedies can help ease cold symptoms and fever. A fever isn't usually dangerous, but you should see your doctor if your temperature reaches 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher or if your fever persists for more than a few days.
Fluids
It's easy to get dehydrated when you have a cold, which can make your symptoms worse. Drink plenty of fluids to keep yourself hydrated, but avoid caffeine and alcohol as they can make dehydration worse. MayoClinic.com recommends clear broth or warm lemon water with honey to keep you hydrated and loosen congestion that can cause a stuffy nose and headache. Chicken soup can also help ease congestion and acts as an anti-inflammatory as well, explains MayoClinic.com. Gargling with warm salt water can temporarily relieve an inflamed sore throat.
Baths
A warm bath when you have a cold can help ease aching muscles and joints, helping you relax and get the rest you need to fight the infection. Keep the water lukewarm and soak for five to 10 minutes at a time if you have an especially high fever to help get your temperature down, advises MayoClinic.com. You can give a child with a fever a lukewarm sponge bath but make sure the bath doesn't cause shivering. Shaking muscles generate heat that can make the fever worse.
Humidity
Dry air can contribute to coughing and congestion. If your room or home is dry, try using a cool-mist humidifier to keep the air moist. Some humidifiers include a menthol vaporizer to help open breathing passageways. It is important to follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions to prevent bacteria and mold spores from entering the air, which could make you sicker.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter medications can help relieve cold symptoms and lower a fever quickly. Acetaminophen is extremely effective at relieving low-grade fevers. Make sure to take products containing acetaminophen exactly as directed. Overdosing can cause liver or kidney damage and many over-the-counter cold medications contain acetaminophen. If you are taking Tylenol or another acetaminophen-containing medication, check your cold medicines to prevent an accidental overdose.
Oral decongestants can make it easier to breathe and nonprescription cough syrups may alleviate some coughing. The American College of Chest Physicians discourages the use of cough medicines in children under the age of 14. Saline nasal sprays can also help relieve congestion and do not lead to a rebound effect like decongestant sprays can, according to MayoClinic.com.
