Try cold and cough medicines

For adults and children age 5 and older, decongestants, antihistamines and pain relievers available without a prescription might ease some symptoms. But they won't prevent a cold or shorten how long it lasts. And most have some side effects.

Experts agree that these shouldn't be given to younger children. Using too much of these medicines or not using them the right way can cause serious damage. Talk with your child's healthcare professional before giving any medicines.

Take medicines only as the label says. Some cold remedies have mixed ingredients, such as a decongestant plus a pain reliever. If you also take a pain reliever, taking a decongestant with a pain reliever could cause problems. Read the labels of cold medicines to make sure you're not taking too much of any medicine.