At any given time of the year, the common cold affects many people. Both the American Academy of Family Physicians, in 2009, and staff at the Mayo Clinic, in 2008, agree that while no cure exists for colds and sore throats that accompany them, people can treat the symptoms and feel better while the sickness runs its course. In the case of the cold, the folk wisdom of getting rest and drinking plenty of fluids often works best.
Rest
People with colds should sleep and rest as much as they can, especially when running a fever. Rest helps the body to fight infection, stated the American Academy of Family Physicians in 2009. If possible, a person should take off from work. That way they can rest more and reduce the chances of getting others sick.
Drink Fluids
Consuming lots of fluids helps in several ways. First, mucus is loosened. Secondly, drinking generously prevents dehydration due to fever and mucus production. Water, clear soups, tea, and juice are all good choices, advises the Mayo Clinic staff. Additionally, people should stay away from alcohol and caffeine because they promote dehydration, and cigarettes--because they can aggravate coughing.
Soothe Your Sore Throat
Gargling with salt water a couple times a day can help to alleviate a sore throat. Using throat sprays or lozenges may also help. If salt water does not sound appetizing, the patient may prefer to drink warm lemon water with honey. The Mayo Clinic Staff says this beverage is useful not only in soothing the throat but also in reducing coughing.
Saline Nasal Drops
To relieve nasal congestion as well as moisten tender skin in your nose, a patient can use saline, or salt water, nose drops, which are available over-the-counter. Both the Mayo Clinic staff and the American Academy of Family physicians agree they are safe, effective, and non-irritating, even for children.
Prevention
Since colds, once contracted, must run their course, an ounce of prevention may well be worth a pound of cure. To reduce the risk of catching a cold, the American Academy of Family Physicians advises adopting a healthy lifestyle to boost the immune system for the long-term. This includes washing hands frequently, eating healthy, exercising, and getting good sleep each night.
