Colds usually last 1 to 2 weeks. Sometimes you may get a bacterial infection after a cold, such as an ear infection or sinus infection. Get lots of rest. Drink lots of fluids, such as water, fruit juice, tea, and soda. Use a humidifier to increase air moisture in your bedroom. Use nose drops to relieve nasal congestion. Call your doctor if you have a worsening earache or sore throat, a cough that is painful, a fever, chills or sweats, a headache, confusion, trouble breathing, swollen and tender lymph nodes in your neck, chest pain, or a skin rash.

The following suggestions may help prevent the spread of your cold and lower the risk of catching a cold.

• Wash your hands after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
• Wash your hands often and especially before touching food, dishes, glasses, silverware, or napkins.
• Avoid close contact with others for the first 2 to 4 days.