There are several self care measures people can take if they have a cold. These include resting, staying warm, drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and eating a healthy balanced diet. Doing steam inhalation can also help to relieve congestion, although customers should be advised to take care to prevent any risk of scalding – sitting in a bathroom with a hot shower running is a safe option.

There are many cold remedies available, but most contain one or both of the following:

• Simple analgesics such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve aches and fever
• Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine, to relieve a blocked nose.

Other ingredients may also be included, such as guaifenesin for a chesty cough.

There are several other products that can help ease various symptoms:

• Vapour rubs, applied to the chest and back, to ease breathing
• Gargles and lozenges to relieve a sore throat
• Saline nasal drops or sprays to help relieve a blocked nose.