“Feed a Fever, Starve a Cold” and Other Common Cold Myths

We’ve all heard it before: “Bundle up or you’ll catch cold.” “Don’t kiss me, I have a cold.” Or “Feed a fever, starve a cold.” While many old adages have truth to them, not all are entirely accurate. Read about some of the common myths and misconceptions about the common cold.

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Common Cold Overview: Causes, Symptoms, Transmission

The common cold is caused by any of about 200 viruses. Viruses are baffling bundles of genetic material. They’re so tiny that if a human throat cell were the size of the typical house, a cold virus would be about the size of a door or window. Using the common definition of “life,” viruses are […]

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Alternative (Complementary) Medicine for the Common Cold

In addition to home remedies for the common cold, such as getting plenty of rest and sipping hot chicken soup, there are a number of natural alternative (complementary) therapies for treating cold symptoms. Try taking echinacea preventively when those close to you—family or coworkers—are infected.

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Home Remedies for the Common Cold

Symptoms of the common cold are a runny nose and nasal congestion, and sometimes sneezing, sore throat, or cough. Symptoms of the common cold can be similar to those of the flu, though flu symptoms are usually more severe, and can also include fever, body aches, dry cough, and extreme fatigue. There are plenty of […]

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OTC Medications for Common Cold

Hundreds of over-the-counter (OTC) cold formulas claim to relieve every major cold symptom. Do they work? The actors in the commercials gain instant relief, but scientific investigations have produced decidedly mixed results. Antihistamines, in particular, have been attacked as useless.

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