Rest and sleep as much as possible
Drink plenty of fluids (water, warm tea, broth)
Use saline nasal spray or saline rinse
Take a hot shower or use steam inhalation
Gargle warm salt water (for sore throat)
Honey (1–2 teaspoons) for cough or throat irritation
Use throat lozenges or hard candy for throat comfort
For fever, aches, or headache: acetaminophen or ibuprofen (follow label directions)
For nasal congestion: consider a decongestant nasal spray for up to 3 days (avoid longer use)
For congestion: consider an oral decongestant or antihistamine (follow label directions)
For cough: consider dextromethorphan or guaifenesin (follow label directions)
Use an air humidifier or cool-mist vaporizer
Keep the room air comfortable; avoid smoke and strong fumes
Eat light, nutritious foods as tolerated
Wash hands often and avoid close contact to prevent spreading
Check for drug interactions and contraindications before using OTC meds
Seek urgent care if trouble breathing, severe chest pain, confusion, dehydration, or symptoms rapidly worsen
Seek medical advice if fever lasts more than 3 days, symptoms last more than 10 days, or you have recurrent/worsening symptoms or high-risk conditions (e.g., asthma, COPD, immunocompromised, pregnancy, infants)