How Can I Manage Common Cold?

Do you drink enough fluids to stay hydrated (about 8 glasses of water a day)?

Are you resting?

Do you drink warm fluids (tea, warm apple juice) or eat chicken soup?

Do you know that it is good to add honey to your warm tea?

Do you gargle with warm salt water (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt dissolved in a glass of warm water)?

Do you use saline nasal drops or sprays?

Do you adjust the temperature of your room (do you keep the room warm but not overheated)?

Do you adjust the humidity of your room (do you use a humidifier)?

Do you use over-the-counter pain relievers or decongestants?

Based on your answers, there are several other ways that can help you manage common cold. It is very important to stay hydrated. You can drink water, juice, warm lemon water with honey or clear soup, which will help alleviate the symptoms of sore throat and nasal congestion. Try to avoid drinks such as coffee, soda and alcohol, as they can contribute to dehydration. Your body needs rest to recover, so you should keep physical activity to a minimum, even if you don't feel so ill. You can also gargle with warm salted water which can temporarily relieve sore or scratchy throat.

Based on your answers, you know a lot about how to manage common cold. Eating chicken soup and sipping warm liquids such as tea or warm apple juice can soothe congestion. You can add a little honey to your tea as it can help relieve cough. You can also use saline nasal drops and sprays to relieve nasal congestion. Try to stay in a room that is warm but not overheated. Dry air contributes to congestion and coughing, so it would be good to use a humidifier. If necessary, you can use painkillers like Advil, Motrin or Tylenol. Also, decongestants can be used for up to 5 days.