There is no cure for the common cold, but there are several remedies you can try to make yourself feel better, according to the "Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide." The best way to prevent a cold is to stay away from others who have one. Do not kiss, touch hands or share utensils with someone who has a cold. Symptoms of a cold include runny nose, sore throat, fatigue, headache, loss of appetite and muscle aches.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
Drinking plenty of liquids can help to alleviate symptoms of the common cold, as consuming fluids will help to loosen mucus, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Drink at least eight glasses a day of water. This will help you stay hydrated. Also, drinking hot fluids, such as an immune building tea will help stimulate the flow of mucus and relieve a stuffy nose. Sipping on warm chicken broth is another favorite remedy to help with a cold.
Vitamin Supplements to Take
Taking zinc supplements at the earliest sign of a cold may help. Studies show that zinc is shown in studies to shorten the duration of a cold, according to the "Harvard Medical School Family Health." Vitamin C supplements may also help boost the immune system, although studies do not show that it actually helps treat a cold.
Salt Water Gargling and Saline Nose Solutions
Gargling with warm saltwater a few times a day may help relieve any sore throat symptoms associated with the common cold. FamilyDoctor.org also suggests using saltwater to loosen mucus in the nose and also to moisturize tender nasal linings. The "Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide" advises not to use a nasal spray for more than five days, as this can make symptoms worst. A doctor may prescribe a nasal spray called ipratropium, which may help.
Get Plenty of Rest
One of the most important things you can do is to get plenty of rest when suffering from a cold. FamilyDoctor.org suggests that rest can help your body replenish and fight off the cold. It allows your immune system to rebuild and restore balance in your body.
See Your Doctor
If you have cold symptoms that last for more than 10 days, or have a high fever more than 103 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 days, you should see a doctor. If you have other symptoms such as your skin turning a bluish hue, vomiting, trouble breathing, earaches, or any other intense or unusual signs, you should see a doctor immediately.
References
- "Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide"; Front Cover Harvard Medical School; 2004
- Family Doctor: Colds and the Flu
