Although most colds aren't considered serious illnesses, they certainly can affect the way you feel and function. That may be why the nonprescription drug section of most stores is packed with potential cold remedies. Still, not all products are effective. Some may pose health risks if they're taken incorrectly, with other medications, or if you have certain medical conditions. To learn more about the common cold and some popular treatments, read on.

CATCHING COLDS

Hundreds of viruses, particularly rhinoviruses, can cause what's known as the common cold. Even though nasal secretions expelled from sneezes or coughs can spread cold viruses, these viruses often are caught by having hand-to-hand contact with someone who has a cold or by using shared objects such as doorknobs, computer keyboards or telephones. Once you touch your mouth, nose or eyes after such exposure to a cold virus, you can acquire a cold.

Colds often occur during cold-weather months-a fact that has led many to believe that exposure to chilly temperatures can cause this illness. But this is a myth. Instead, when temperatures dip, most people spend more time indoors, where they typically have closer, more prolonged contact with others who may be sick.

TELLTALE SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of a common cold usually appear about one to three days after exposure to a virus. Although signs and symptoms vary, the most common are a runny or stuffy nose, itchy or sore throat, cough, sneezing, watery eyes. Slight body aches or a mild headache, mild fatigue and low fever(less than 102F).

RELIEVING SYMPTOMS

There's no cure for the common cold. In fact, antibiotics which are used to treat bacteria infections are of no use against cold viruses and nonprescription medications haven't been show to stop colds from running their natural course. But there are remedies that may help with symptom relief. Here's the latest on some of the most popular options:

1. Fluids. Drinking plenty of liquids such as plain water, juice, clear broth and yes chicken soup helps loosen the mucus that can cause congestion and helps prevent dehydration. Warm liquids also can help ease a sore throat. However, not all liquids are quite so helpful. Alcohol and caffeinated coffee and sodas may make dehydration more likely.

2. Humidity. Using a cool-mist humidifier, leaning over a bowl or sink of hot water with a towel over your head, or breathing in steamy air created by a bathroom shower are all ways to moisten the air around you and ease congestion and coughing. If you use a humidifier, however, change the water daily and clean out the unit at least every three days to prevent the growth of mold, fungus or bacteria.

3. Pain relievers can be used to reduce a fever or relieve the pain of a sore throat or headache.

4. Decongestants. Decongestant nasal sprays or drops help ease congestion by shrinking swollen tissue inside the nose. But is used for more than two or three days, they can lead to the inflammation of mucous membranes and worsen congestion. You may want to try using saltwater nose drops or nasal sprays to combat a stuffy nose.

SEEING A DOCTOR

Common colds usually go away in about a week and usually don't require medical attention. However, if your symptoms seem severe or more flu-like, high fever, body aches and a loss of appetite-see your doctor. Prescription antiviral drugs may reduce the severity and duration of influenza, but only if taken within the first 48 hours after the onset of flu symptons. If regular cold symptons don't improve over time, or start to worsen, you may have developed a secondary infection, such as bronchitis, pneumonia or sinusitis. In these cases, seek medical attention.

PREVENTION TIPS

Colds are difficult to prevent. But these precautions may help you steer clear of the viruses that make you sick:

1. Wash well. Washing hands with soap and warm water has been shown to be the most effective way of reducing cold risk. If you can't get to a sink, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are a good alternative.

2. Regularly clean surfaces and shared objects with disinfectant sprays or wipes. Viruses can survive up to several days on countertops, phones receivers or computer keyboards.

3. Limit exposure to others with colds when possible. In addition, try to avoid sharing drinking glasses, utensils, or hand towels, especially with someone who's sick.

4. Maintain good health habits. Eating well-balanced meals, getting enough rest and exercising regularly help your immune system stay healthy, so it can more effectively fight off cold viruses and other infections.