A cough may last 2 to 3 weeks. Not much can be done to affect how long a cold lasts. However, we can relieve many of the symptoms. Keep in mind that the treatment for a runny nose is quite different from the treatment for a stuffy nose. Treatment for a runny nose with a lot of discharge Sniffing and swallowing the secretions is probably better than blowing because blowing the nose can force the infection into the ears or sinuses.
Nasal discharge is the nose's way of getting rid of viruses.
Medicine is not helpful unless you have a nasal allergy. Most stuffy noses are blocked by dry mucus. Blowing the nose alone cannot remove most dry secretions. Nosedrops of warm tap water or saline are better than any medicine you can buy for loosening up mucus. Use a clean dropper to put drops into the nose.