While there is no cure, many medications can help relieve cold symptoms. These products will not make the cold go away faster, but they can lessen the discomfort caused by the infection, making the illness more bearable. There are literally hundreds of products available to treat cold symptoms. If possible, use medications regularly in order to prevent sneezing or coughing from getting out of control. Don't smoke, and avoid being around other people who are smoking.
Inhaled smoke can further irritate the throat, worsening a cough.
For other symptoms, such as congestion, cough or nasal discharge, a combination of products may be used. Blocked nasal passages, nasal discharge and post-nasal drip are best treated with both a decongestant and an antihistamine. The newer, non-sedating antihistamines do not appear to be as effective in relieving cold symptoms as the older medications in this class. Complications Colds are self-limited. In other words, they always get better, with or without medications, within a few weeks.