The amount of fluids you should drink varies from person to person, depending on things like age, climate, level of activity, etc. ; drinking at least 6-8 glasses of water or other liquids a day is often recommended as a general guideline. [1] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
Caffeinated beverages are not the best choice when you are ill, as they can leave you dehydrated. Try herbal teas instead. Chamomile, for example, has a calming, relaxing effect. [2] X Research source Echinacea is also a good, time-honored choice—some research shows it can reduce the severity and duration of a cold. Honey added to tea will soothe a sore throat and act as a cough suppressant. [3] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Hot or cold packs around your nostrils are another way to help relieve congestion, as are saline nasal drops and sprays. [5] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
You can gargle every few hours. Dissolve ¼ to ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle to find some relief. [6] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Over-the-counter throat sprays can also provide some relief. Make sure to carefully follow all package directions regarding how much and how often to use. Cough drops, lozenges, ice chips and even hard candies and popsicles can all soothe a sore throat (just don’t give them to small children, as they are a choking hazard). [7] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Procedure for use varies according to the particular neti pot, but generally it involves tilting your head, breathing through your mouth, carefully letting a sterile saline solution flow out of the neti pot, in one nostril, and out the other. [8] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source [9] X Research source Use distilled or sterilized water (don’t just use water straight from the tap) and a sterilized pot. [10] X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug Administration U. S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source Carefully follow all directions that come with your neti pot.
Check with your child’s doctor or a pharmacist before giving medications to children.
Dissolve the Epsom salt in a warm water bath. Follow package directions for how much epsom salt to use per gallon of water. [11] X Research source You can also use a bucket or tub to soak just your feet, if you don’t feel like taking a bath.
A cold lasts longer than 10 days A high fever (above 103 °F or 39. 5 °C, or above 100 °F or 38 °C for a baby three months or younger) or a fever lasting more than 3 days Trouble breathing (shortness of breath, nonstop coughing, etc. ) Drainage from the ear or eyes Severe pain Stiff neck A rash Signs of dehydration (feeling very weak or dizzy, dry mouth, or decreased urination) If you are ever in doubt, seek medical advice.
If you have a fever, also keep cool, damp cloths at hand. If you feel hot, place one on your forehead or elsewhere for some relief. Avoid smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke.
If you need to keep your mind busy or are bored while convalescing, try some low-activity entertainment, like watching television or reading a book. If you can, ask others to help you with day-to-day tasks, getting meals, etc. , or if there is something else that must be taken care of while you are sick.
