Health Tip: Caught a Cold?

Suggestions to help you feel better

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(HealthDay News) -- 'Tis the season for a runny nose, cough, sore throat and other symptoms of the common cold.

You shouldn't treat a cold -- always caused by a virus -- with antibiotics, since these medicines are meant to treat bacterial infections. But there are things you can do to feel better while the cold runs its course.

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The University of Virginia Health System offers these suggestions:

• Try over-the-counter medications, such as an antihistamine, decongestant or cough medicine.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Increase the amount of fluids you drink.
• Take a pain reliever to control headache and fever.
• Soothe a sore throat by gargling with warm salt water.
• Apply petroleum jelly to sore, dry skin around the nose and lips.
• Use a warm steam to ease congestion.

-- Diana Kohnle