Home care

If you're a fit and healthy person, a cold or flu is unlikely to be serious, or cause you any complications. It will disappear without treatment, but there are plenty of over-the-counter medicines you can use to help relieve your symptoms.
Decongestants such as pseudoephedrine can be taken for congested nasal passages and sinuses (stuffy nose).
Anti-histamine tablets and nasal sprays, also used to treat allergies, are an alternative treatment, but can make you feel drowsy.
Coughs and sore throats can be relieved with cough medicines and lozenges.
You can also use antiseptic or local anaesthetic throat sprays, which will help soothe
sore throats and ease pain.

Antibiotics can only be prescribed by your GP, but don't often work on the majority of coughs and sore throats.
If you are taking over-the-counter medicines, it is important to check with your pharmacist (chemist) that they will not interact with other medicines you are currently taking.
In particular, always check the packaging and enclosed patient information leaflet to make
sure you don't take more than the recommended dose.If you're unsure, always ask your pharmacist.