Common colds and coughs

Lady sneezing using a handkerchief Many people get a cold over the winter months, but if you are fit and healthy it’s unlikely to be serious. Painkillers are often useful in reducing the symptoms of coughs and colds, and these can be obtained from your pharmacy.

Stop the spread of colds and coughs

Colds and coughs are caused by viruses, which are passed easily from person to person.

When you cough or sneeze you send tiny droplets of infected saliva into the air.

The best way to stop spreading germs is to:

always carry tissues
use a tissue to cover your nose and mouth every time you cough or sneeze
use tissues once and throw them in a bin
wash/clean your hands regularly, and as soon as possible after sneezing or coughing

The importance of hand hygiene

Help yourself feel better

You can take some steps to reduce the effects of winter colds:

keep warm – lots of thin layers of clothing are best
take the recommended dosage of paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease any aches and pains and keep your temperature down
keep up your fluid intake and cut down on caffeinated drinks, such as tea, coffee and cola

There are many remedies available at your local pharmacy.

You should follow a pharmacist’s advice if you are already taking painkillers or any other medicines.

Boost your immune system

Your immune system helps you fight viruses.

To help your immune system, you can:

eat more fruit, vegetables and wholegrain foods - they contain vitamins and minerals
don't smoke or use recreational drugs – both stop your immune system from working properly
exercise regularly

Visiting your doctor

You only need to see your doctor if:

your cold and/or cough lasts more than three weeks
you find you are short of breath
you get chest pains or you already have a chest condition
you have another condition that has worsened while you have a cold or flu
How to use your health services

Colds and coughs in pregnancy

Along with all the information above, it’s important for pregnant women to:

avoid a raised temperature: use paracetamol or take a shower to cool down
get plenty of rest
talk to the pharmacist before taking 'over-the-counter' cold and flu treatments – they are not always suitable for pregnancy
Having a baby