10 Symptoms and Treatments of the Common Cold

A stuffy nose is one of the most common cold symptoms. The virus causes mucous membranes and blood vessels to swell, leading to that familiar blocked-up feeling. Most of the time, it's nothing to worry about — but if the mucus turns thick and yellowy-green, or you develop sinus pain or a severe headache that lingers, it's worth seeing a doctor.

For relief, saline drops are a good starting point — no prescription needed. They help constrict blood vessels in the nose and reduce swelling. A neti pot can take things further by flushing a saline solution through the nasal passages to thin and rinse away mucus. Vapor rub is another reliable option, helping to open airways and break down congestion. Elevating your head reduces blood flow to the nose, which can ease stuffiness, and a hot, steamy shower can bring quick temporary relief.

When a cold virus enters the body, it triggers the release of inflammatory mediators like histamine, which causes mucus glands to ramp up production and blood vessels to dilate. The resulting irritation to the mucous membranes of the nose and throat is what sets off sneezing.

There's not a great deal you can do to stop sneezing while a cold runs its course — it tends to ease off as your other symptoms improve. Antihistamines can help take the edge off, and most over-the-counter cold medications already contain them.

A cough often accompanies a cold, usually a wet, productive one that brings up phlegm. It can stick around for a while even after other symptoms have faded, but it's generally not a cause for concern. If a cough comes with a fever and thick, greenish mucus, though, it's time to check in with a doctor.

Over-the-counter cough syrups contain expectorants that loosen mucus, increase its water content, and help thin it out. If you'd rather go the natural route, a teaspoon of dried licorice root in a honey and lemon drink works well. Peppermint tea contains menthol, which helps thin mucus, and eucalyptus is another well-regarded natural expectorant and decongestant.

A cold virus inflames the tissues of the throat, making it sore, scratchy, and sometimes painful to swallow — particularly with solid food. The good news is that sore throats that come from a cold tend to respond well to simple home remedies.

Gargling with warm, salty water is one of the most effective and time-tested options. Hot water with two teaspoons of honey and the juice of half a lemon is another favorite — the lemon provides a boost of vitamin C, while the honey coats irritated membranes, making swallowing easier. Lozenges and throat sprays can also provide some welcome relief.

Headaches are a common and sometimes debilitating part of having a cold. The body's immune response releases molecules called cytokines to help fight off the virus, but they can also trigger headaches as a side effect. Sinus swelling and congestion are other contributing factors.

Most combination cold medications address headaches alongside other symptoms — Tylenol, for instance, can ease headache pain, sore throat, and fever all at once. Lying down in a dark room with a cool compress on your forehead can also help. Since headaches are often a sign of dehydration, increasing your fluid intake is a simple but genuinely useful step.

Colds can cause dehydration, particularly when a fever brings on sweating. Staying on top of fluid intake is important—dehydration can make other symptoms worse and slow recovery.

Aim to drink more than you normally would. Water is always a good choice, and it can also help thin mucus. A honey and lemon drink or a peppermint herbal tea are equally good options. Steer clear of coffee, alcohol, and caffeinated drinks, which can dehydrate you further.

Feeling drained and low-energy is par for the course with a cold. Your body is working hard to fight off the virus, and it does that best when you give it the chance to rest. Pushing through and staying active might feel productive, but it can actually slow your recovery. Rest really is one of the best things you can do.

Generalized body aches can come with a cold, though they're more characteristic of flu. When they do show up, even simple movements and everyday tasks can feel like an effort. A warm bath can do a lot to ease mild aches and help you feel more comfortable. If that's not enough, an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen can help.

A slightly elevated temperature is a sign that your immune system is doing its job. A high fever, on the other hand, may suggest flu or another condition rather than a common cold.

A sponge bath can help bring a fever down — just avoid water that's too cold, as it can cause shivering and actually raise your body temperature. A cool, damp washcloth on the forehead is a gentler alternative. A cup of ginger tea is also a good natural option for reducing fever.

It's common to lose your appetite when you have a cold, especially if your throat is too sore to manage solid food comfortably. Liquid-based foods are the way to go here. Chicken broth is a classic for good reason — it helps relieve congestion, soothes fever symptoms, eases aches, and is easy to get down even when you're feeling rough. Cool, soft foods like yogurt can also be appealing and help with hydration and fever management.