Treating cold and flu symptoms at home

Some 15 million Americans have come down with the flu this year, 180,000 people have ended up in the hospital and 7,400 deaths from the flu have been reported according to the American Red Cross, making 2025-26 one of the most brutal flu seasons on record.

With so many Americans catching the virus, people are searching for ways to relieve the symptoms that come with it – namely fever, congestion, cough, body aches, sore throat and fatigue.

As a pharmacist, I wanted to offer a guide as to what most relatively healthy people can do to manage their symptoms using over-the-counter treatments and supportive care. Knowing which medications treat your symptoms can help you feel better faster while your body fights the infection.

This guide is not meant for people who are at high risk for complications or are having emergency symptoms like trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion or severe dizziness. If you are having any of those symptoms, you should go to the emergency department right away.

Other patients who should seek medical advice if they think they have the flu are ones at high risk of hospitalization including: patients 64 years and older; kids younger than 2; people with weakened immune systems; those with chronic diseases like asthma, COPD, heart disease, liver or kidney issues; and those who are obese or pregnant.

But what really works for the rest of us? For fever, headaches and body aches, pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) can reduce discomfort and help control fever. These medications should be taken as directed, and patients should avoid taking multiple products with the same active ingredient at the same time. Products like DayQuil and NyQuil are popular formulations that people take when sick, but many of these products already contain acetaminophen, which can lead to overdose. If you’re not sure, ask your pharmacist or doctor.

If nasal congestion is your main complaint, decongestants can help shrink swollen nasal passages and improve breathing. Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) is a potent medication for nasal congestion and comes in tablet form. It should not be used by those with high blood pressure or within six hours of bedtime, as it can keep you awake. Oxymetazoline (Afrin) nasal spray is also effective but should only be used for a few days to avoid rebound congestion.

Runny nose, sneezing and watery eyes often respond well to antihistamines. Claritin and Zyrtec are over-the-counter and once-a-day tablets that are non-drowsy. These are a great starting point, as they are safe and effective. If extra relief is needed, it’s OK to take a Benadryl (diphenhydramine) at bedtime, as it tends to cause drowsiness, which can help you get a good night’s rest.

For cough, the right treatment depends on the type of cough. Dry, irritating coughs may improve with cough suppressants like Delsym (dextromethorphan), while productive (mucus-producing) coughs often benefit from expectorants that help loosen mucus so it can be cleared more easily. Staying well hydrated also plays an important role in thinning secretions.

Sore throats can be soothed with lozenges, throat sprays, warm liquids and saltwater gargles. Honey may also help calm cough and throat irritation in adults and children over 1 year of age.

These medications can work together and can be safe. Many patients are reluctant to take multiple medications because of a fear of drug interactions. If you are not on any prescription medications, then the medications listed are relatively safe together. Taking a pain reliever along with a cough suppressant and antihistamine at night is something that is safe and can help promote a good night’s sleep. If you have medical conditions or are on medications, it’s best to ask a medical professional before taking any of these combinations.

Beyond medications, rest, fluids and time remain essential parts of recovery. Drinking plenty of water, warm teas or broth helps prevent dehydration and supports your immune system. Using a humidifier and getting adequate sleep can also ease symptoms.

Knowing what to do and using medications properly will hopefully get you feeling better and on your way!