Having a cold can be a miserable experience, with symptoms like a runny nose, cough, sore throat, and fatigue making everyday tasks feel like a struggle. However, there are steps you can take to manage your cold and start feeling better in no time.

Rest and Stay Hydrated

One of the most important things you can do when you have a cold is to rest and stay hydrated. Make sure to get plenty of sleep and give your body the time it needs to recover. Drink lots of water, herbal tea, and clear broth to help keep your throat moist and relieve congestion. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you and make your symptoms worse.

Use Over-the-Counter Remedies

There are a variety of over-the-counter remedies available to help manage cold symptoms. For a runny nose, you can use decongestants or antihistamines. Lozenges or throat sprays can provide relief for a sore throat. Cough suppressants can help calm a persistent cough, while expectorants can help loosen mucus. Be sure to read the labels and follow the directions carefully when using these remedies.

Try Home Remedies

In addition to over-the-counter remedies, there are also some home remedies you can try to help alleviate your cold symptoms. Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat while inhaling steam from a hot shower or humidifier can help reduce congestion. Drinking warm beverages like tea with honey and lemon can also provide relief. 

Stay Comfortable

When you have a cold, it's important to do what you can to stay comfortable. Make sure to dress warmly and keep your living space at a comfortable temperature. Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air and help relieve congestion. Take warm baths or showers to relax your muscles and ease your breathing. 

Know When to See a Doctor

While most colds will resolve on their own within a few weeks, there are times when it's important to see a doctor. If your symptoms are severe or persistent, if you have a high fever, or if you have difficulty breathing, it's time to seek medical attention. Your doctor can help determine if your cold is something more serious, like the flu or a sinus infection, and provide you with the appropriate treatment.

Having a cold can be a frustrating experience, but with the right approach, you can manage your symptoms and start feeling better soon. By resting, staying hydrated, using over-the-counter and home remedies, staying comfortable, and knowing when to see a doctor, you can help your body fight off the cold virus and heal more quickly.

Learn more from an urgent care clinic near you like South Shore Health.