When you're coughing or sneezing; this could be the early signs of a cough, flu, cold, sore throat or allergy. Some of the symptoms can be rather painful and uncomfortable. If you're sneezing or have a runny nose, you likely have a cold or hayfever and can treat this with cold tablets or hayfever capsules. You can also clear your blocked nose by using an inhaler, inhalant or nasal spray.