Onset Usually abrupt after a 1-3 day period of incubation. Symptoms Usually last 4-10 days.
Treatment is for symptomatic relief.
Steam inhalations to relieve chest tightness and to mobilize secretions. Night time use of an antitussive cough syrup to control coughing aand allow sleep. Antihistamines may reduce rhinorrhea in allergic patients. Antibiotics are not used unless there is a secondary bacterial complication. Antipyretics and analgesics are commonly used but their benefit, except in reducing fever, is doubtful.