Treatment There's no cure for the common cold. Most cases of the common cold get better without treatment within 7 to 10 days. But a cough may last a few more days. The best thing you can do is take care of yourself while your body heals. Care tips include: Rest. Drink plenty of liquids. Humidify the air. Use saline nasal rinses. Antibiotics do not treat cold viruses. They are used to treat ...