12/12/2025
Tips on how you can manage cold symptoms, supporting you to look after you.
*Take simple pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen.
*Decongestant nasal sprays can help with a blocked nose.
*Inhalants (eucalyptus, menthol) can also help ease a blocked nose.
*Drink plenty of water to avoid getting dehydrated.
*Gargle salt water to soothe a sore throat.
*Wash your hands often and use tissues to prevent germs from spreading.
For more advice ask visit your local pharmacy.
You can treat a cold without seeing a GP.
Antibiotics do not work for colds because colds are caused by viruses not bacteria.
The Colds leaflet is available on our Self-care Stands at both sites.
Created by NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire ICB Medicines Optimisation Team.
Otherself-care leaflets can be found at https://www.nottsapc.nhs.uk/patients/
Photo by Brittany Colette on Unsplash