Are there any other treatments for the common cold?

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•Last Updated: October 25, 2023

Saline nasal and sinus irrigation (using devices like a neti pot or a nebulizer) may improve cold symptoms. However, it’s very important to only use water that has been filtered, sterilized, or otherwise treated for such uses — serious infections can occur otherwise.^[1]

Some trials report that meditation and exercise may reduce the risk and severity of the common cold.^[2]^[3]

Last Updated:October 25, 2023

References

^National Institute of Health: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
^Rakel D, Mundt M, Ewers T, Fortney L, Zgierska A, Gassman M, Barrett BValue associated with mindfulness meditation and moderate exercise intervention in acute respiratory infection: the MEPARI Study.Fam Pract.(2013-Aug)
^Obasi CN, Brown R, Ewers T, Barlow S, Gassman M, Zgierska A, Coe CL, Barrett BAdvantage of meditation over exercise in reducing cold and flu illness is related to improved function and quality of life.Influenza Other Respir Viruses.(2013-Nov)