Cold Comfort

If you’ve caught a cold, you’ll probably walk around sniffling and sneezing with a blanket wrapped around you and a tissue in your hand --- but only for a few days. Colds usually start with a sore throat, a runny nose and chest congestion. The symptoms can be uncomfortable, but most people are back to their normal routine fairly quickly.

The best way to treat the common cold is with plenty of rest, so take it easy, go to bed early and let your body get as much sleep as possible. You should also:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Gargle with salt water if your throat is sore
• Add moisture to the air with a humidifier or cool mist vaporizer
• Take a decongestant and cough suppressant if needed
• Sip warm liquids like tea or chicken soup to help ease congestion
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine and spicy foods

Occasionally, a cold develops into a sinus or ear infection … or it’s possible that you’ve actually got the flu. If your “cold” comes with a high fever, fatigue, headache and muscle aches, see your doctor right away.