All You Need to Know

• What are the symptoms of a cold?

  The symptoms typically include:

  • Blocked or runny nose
  • Sore throat
  • Headaches
  • Muscle aches
  • Coughs
  • Sneezing
  • Raised temperature
  • Pressure in your ears and face
  • Loss of taste and smell.

• What is the difference between a cold and flu?

  Cold and flu symptoms are similar, but flu tends to be much more severe.

  Flu symptoms affect more than just your nose and throat.

  If you have a cold, you feel unwell but are able to carry on as normal. Flu can make you feel exhausted and unable to carry on as normal.

• How do I treat a cold?

  Unfortunately, there is no cure for a cold, but there are things you can do to help you feel better.

  • Rest and sleep
  • Drink plenty of water (fruit juice or squash mixed with water is OK) to avoid dehydration
  • Take over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Follow the guidance on the packet.
  • Use decongestant sprays or tablets to relieve a blocked nose
  • Eat healthily – a low-fat, high-fibre diet is recommended, including plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.

• How do I treat a cough?

  If you have a cough it will usually clear up within three to four weeks.

  It's important to rest and drink plenty of fluids. If you have a temperature and don't feel well enough to do your normal activities, you should stay at home and avoid contact with other people.

  Painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen might help and you could try a hot lemon and honey drink. You could also try a herbal medicine called pelargonium if you are aged 12 or over.

  Cough medicines may help you cough less, but they won't stop your cough.

  If you have a persistent cough which lasts more than three weeks you should see a GP.

• How do I avoid spreading a cold?

  You could pass on your cold even before your symptoms have started. You remain infectious until all of your symptoms have cleared up.

  Colds are spread by germs from coughs and sneezes, which can live on hands and surfaces for 24 hours.

  To reduce the risk of spreading a cold:

  • Wash your hands often with warm water and soap.
  • Use tissues to trap germs when you cough or sneeze.
  • Dispose of used tissues as quickly as possible into a bin.

• How do I avoid catching a cold?

  The best ways to avoid catching a cold are:

  • Washing your hands with warm water and soap
  • Not sharing towels or household items (like cups) with someone who has a cold
  • Not touching your eyes or nose in case you have come into contact with the virus – it can infect the body this way
  • Staying fit and healthy.