1. Drink Plenty of Liquids
Liquids such as water, tea with lemon and honey, and juice can loosen congestion, keep your throat moist, and help prevent dehydration. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic drinks as these may actually make you more dehydrated. Chicken soup can also help you feel better. Hot liquids, including soup, act as an anti-inflammatory and help clear nasal congestion. If you have a sore or scratchy throat, try gargling with salt water.
2. Inhale Steam
Both stuffiness and scratchy throats can be relieved through the use of a humidifier or warm steam spa. If you use a humidifier be sure to clean it regularly, otherwise it can add not only water but also bacteria, mold, and fungi into the air. You can also inhale steam from a boiling pot of water or bowl of hot soup or take a hot shower with the bathroom door closed. Hot showers can also help you relax and relieve achy muscles.
3. Take a Variety of Over-the-Counter Cold Meds
Over-the-counter painkillers can help alleviate aches and lower fever. Decongestants can help clear out mucus. Non-prescription drugs should be used with caution as they will not actually cure your cold, but simply help with the symptoms. Excessive use of these drugs can actually lead to health problems such as liver damage and accidental drug overdoses. Follow enclosed directions carefully and consult with your pharmacist or health care provider if you have any questions.
4. Get Sufficient Sleep
If you are well-rested and relaxed, you will be less likely to catch a cold. Once you have a cold, a full night's sleep can help your body gain the energy necessary to fight illness and become healthy. Sleeping with an extra pillow under your head can help drain your nasal passages. When you are sick your body needs more sleep than usual. Don't feel guilty about sleeping an extra hour or two at night or taking a nap during the day.
5. Jury's Out on Vitamins and Herbs
Your mother might encourage you to drink orange juice to prevent you from catching a cold, but studies have shown mixed results about the affects of vitamin C on colds. Some show vitamin C can help prevent colds and some indicate that vitamin C has no affect on colds. Studies on the effect of echinacea and zinc have not indicated that they can prevent or relieve the symptoms of colds. Future research may show other results. These substances may not prevent or cure colds, but they are safe to consume and you can continue to use them if you feel they help you. Be sure to consult with your health care provider about any vitamins or herbs you use to avoid potentially dangerous interactions with other substances and medications you are also taking.
