Treatments for Cold and Flu Symptoms

Pain and Fever Relief, Decongestants, Cough Remedies and Sore Throat Treatments.

What is a Cold?

Most colds and mild flu cases can be managed at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter treatments to help relieve symptoms. At McCabes Pharmacy, our pharmacists can help you choose the right treatments and advise when it may be necessary to seek further medical care.

A cold is a mild viral infection that mainly affects the nose and throat. It usually develops gradually and improves within 7–10 days.

Common cold symptoms include:

  • Runny or blocked nose
  • Sneezing
  • Sore throat
  • Mild cough
  • Mild headache
  • Slight tiredness
  • Low-grade fever (sometimes)

Colds are very common and adults may experience several each year.

What is a Flu?

Flu (influenza) is a more serious viral infection that tends to come on suddenly and can make you feel significantly unwell.

Common flu symptoms include:

  • High temperature
  • Body aches and muscle pain
  • Chills and sweats
  • Dry cough
  • Headache
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Loss of appetite

Flu symptoms usually last longer than a cold and may take one to two weeks for full recovery.

Symptom Cold Flu
Onset Gradual Sudden
Fever Rare or mild Common and often high
Body aches Mild Common and more severe
Fatigue Mild Can be severe
Sneezing Common Less common
Cough Mild to moderate Often dry and persistent

Self-Care Tips

Alongside medicines, simple self-care can help support recovery:

  • Rest as much as possible
  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Use tissues when coughing or sneezing
  • Wash hands regularly to prevent spreading infection
  • Eat light, nutritious meals if you feel able

When to Speak to a Pharmacist or GP

Most colds and flu improve on their own. However, you should seek medical advice if:

  • Symptoms last longer than 10 days
  • You have difficulty breathing
  • You have a high fever that does not improve
  • Symptoms suddenly worsen
  • You are pregnant, elderly, or have a chronic medical condition

Young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems may be at higher risk of complications.

Our pharmacists are always available to provide advice and help you decide whether further medical care may be needed.

Preventing Cold and Flu

There are steps you can take to reduce the risk of catching or spreading infections:

  • Wash your hands regularly
  • Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow
  • Dispose of tissues promptly
  • Stay home when you feel unwell

Annual flu vaccination is recommended for people in certain at-risk groups.

Looking after your winter health