Can you drink coffee when you have a cold?

Generally, individuals with a cold should avoid drinking coffee, as it may hinder recovery. Coffee is mildly stimulating and may irritate the gastrointestinal tract; it can also cause nervous system excitation, potentially leading to insomnia—both of which are generally detrimental to cold recovery. When experiencing a cold, treatment typically involves antiviral and antihistamine medications prescribed by a physician, along with antipyretic and analgesic drugs.