How to Get Rid of a Cold

The cold season can be a sad time of year when the symptoms of colds just won’t disappear. According to experts, you can have two to five colds a year, not to mention a good seasonal flu that will nail you to the bed for several days. The main symptoms of a cold are:

•    Sneezing

•    Nasal discharge or congestion

•    Sore throat

•    Hoarseness

•    Cough

Although there is no available cure for a cold, relief of symptoms can be the difference between feeling good or feeling miserable. There are immediate actions you could take to help get rid of the cold symptoms and stay in good condition during the day. Some steps of how to get rid of a cold are listed below.

How to get rid of a cold:

1. Stay Hydrated

Adequate nutrition is important to your overall health, but did you know that certain beverages can help you treat a cold? You may not be able to eliminate the cold, but you can help relieve some of your cold symptoms. Warm drinks can relieve cough and sore throat by simulating secretions and saliva that help soften and lubricate the throat. In addition, they prevent dehydration, and help liquefy the mucus that obstructs your sinuses and causes you to breathe through the mouth.

2. Get Enough Sleep

Sleeping is essential for your body to rest and heal. Although it will not help you eliminate the cold, sleeping will allow your immune system to fight off infections faster. Try to organize your schedule so that you will be able to rest more, and help to treat the cold. In addition, a nasal humidifier or decongestant can help you breathe better when you sleep.

3. Meditation

When you ask yourself how to get rid of a cold, remember that you can only treat the symptoms of a cold. Studies show that stress does not allow you to stay healthy, especially during the flu and cold season. Try to put the stress aside for a change. Taking daily breaks to meditate can help you stay relaxed and calm. You can do this by closing your eyes and focusing on your breathing for a few minutes.

4. Maintain cleanliness

Cleanliness will help keep viruses under control, and will prevent the spread of the cold. Be sure to clean and disinfect the surfaces you frequently touch at home and at work. Remember to do so especially during the cold or flu season, or when someone close to you is sick.

5. Consult a doctor

You can relieve the symptoms of colds with some over-the-counter medications. Do not hesitate to ask your pharmacist for advice. However, some symptoms will require immediate consultation of medical personnel. These include:

•    A fever that persists for more than 48 hours or is greater than 39.5 ° C (103.1° F)

•    A rash

•    Respiratory difficulties

•    Chest pain

•    High neck stiffness

•    Inability to urinate for 12 hours

•    Confusion

Essentially, when you have a cold, your daily tasks become more difficult. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the common cold. The important factor to remember regarding how to get rid of a cold is to be attentive, and treat the symptoms through the steps outlined above.