Consumer Reports: The best ways to treat a cold

NEW YORK -- Cold season is in full swing. Many people turn to so-called "natural" remedies to try and prevent colds or ease the symptoms. Consumer Reports has reviewed the evidence and can tell you the best ways to treat a cold.

Sneezing, runny nose, headache, sometimes a cough and a fever, too. Anyone who's had a cold wants to do something to make it go away.

"A recent review of studies on zinc shows that it can shorten the duration of a cold slightly, but it does nothing for the severity of the symptoms. And there can be side effects," said Consumer Reports Health Editor Trisha Calvo.

Zinc can cause nausea. Other symptoms are stomach cramps and diarrhea. And over the long term, too much zinc may increase your risk for prostate cancer and neurological problems.

"Then there's the myth that massive doses of Vitamin C can alleviate or even prevent a cold. Not true, and too much 'C' can lead to digestive problems or in some cases kidney stones," said Calvo.

So to alleviate cold symptoms, should you pick up an over-the-counter medicine from the drugstore?

"Again, we urge caution, especially with multi-symptom products. You could well be getting dosed for symptoms you don't even have," Calvo said.

Consumer Reports says it's best to take over-the-counter medicines with single ingredients: Choose ibuprofen or acetaminophen for aches and fever, a decongestant for nasal congestion, or a cough suppressant to quiet a cough.

Another caution: Children under four should never be given over-the-counter cough and cold products, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

In any case, colds usually run their course in a week to ten days, and you can also get through it by resting and drinking plenty of liquids.

If you have children age four and older, there are some over-the-counter medicines they can take safely. But Consumer Reports cautions you to consult with a doctor first.