Got A Cold? (Here’s How The Mayo Clinic Would Fight It)

Despite my best efforts I have come down with the cold that has been making the rounds in our office. There's no cure for the common cold; and when I think 'cold,' I don't think Mayo Clinic (I let them take care of the more serious stuff) -- but what the heck, they're experts, so let's see what they have to say.

There are a gazillion options and remedies when it comes to battling the common cold. The Mayo Clinic breaks it all down into three categories: 1) What works. 2) What doesn't. 3) And what can't hurt.

What they say works:

• Water & other fluids: Water, juices, and broth help. Avoid alcohol, coffee and caffeinated sodas.
• Saltwater gargle: Can temporarily relieve a sore or scratchy throat.
• Saline nasal drops and sprays: Combat stuffiness and congestion.
• Chicken soup: 1) Acts as an anti-inflammatory, and 2) Temporarily speeds up the movement of mucus.
• Over-the-counter cold and cough medications: Use as directed. Can't shorten a cold, but can make you feel better when used for a few days or less.
• Antihistamines: First-generation (sedating) antihistamines may provide minor relief of several cold symptoms.
• Humidity: Cold viruses thrive in dry conditions — another reason why colds are more common in winter.

What they say doesn't work:

• Antibiotics: These attack bacteria, not the cold virus.
• Over-the-counter cold and cough medications in young children: These may cause serious and even life-threatening side effects in children.
• Zinc: The highest quality randomized trials generally show no benefit. Intranasal zinc may result in permanent damage to the sense of smell.

• Vitamin C: It doesn't look like it will help you shorten a cold, but it could help prevent getting one in the first place. (It might also make colds shorter when taken before catching one.)
• Echinacea: Studies are mixed. Some show no benefit. Some show significant effects. At the very least, using echinacea supplements is unlikely to cause harm.

The bottom line according to the Mayo Clinic:

Although usually minor, colds can make you feel miserable. It's tempting to try the latest remedy, but the best thing you can do is take care of yourself. Rest, drink fluids and keep the air around you moist. Remember to wash your hands frequently.