How to conquer head colds

With cold and flu season upon us, there is a chance that you could develop a head cold. The cold is a virus and while it is not lethal, it can leave you feeling groggy, sick, and miserable.

While there is no cure for head colds, you can still help them go away faster by taking care of yourself. The following are some tips for how to conquer head colds:

Rest
One of the best things you can do for your body when you're sick with a head cold is rest. Your body heals itself best when it is not being exerted with other things. Get plenty of sleep by going to bed early. Take some time off work if needs be, so you can get some extra sleep at night and in the morning and throughout the day. Keep a window open so fresh air can circulate throughout the room.

Drink plenty of fluids.
Staying hydrated is essential when you have a cold. Drink plenty of water. If you don't like the taste of water, you can flavor it with sugar free drink mixes or lemon or lime. Drink at least 60 ounces of water a day when you have the cold. Warm water is said to be the best, as it is easier on the stomach.

Your diet should consist of fluid-based things as well, such as mild soups, steamed vegetables and fruits, and others. Avoid processed or fattening foods while sick. Make sure the food your eating is light so your body doesn't have to work as hard digesting.

Get some medicine.
If you have a fever, Tylenol or ibuprofen can help you manage it. There are plenty of cold and flu medicines available over the counter that can help you fight your cold. Antihistamine and decongestant combinations are good for relieving the congestion that comes with the common cold.

Make sure you read the ingredients and side effects carefully, however. Many cold medicines make you drowsy, which can make things like driving dangerous. There are many types of cold medicines that are available for both night and day-night will help you sleep when you are miserable with a cold, and day will help relieve your symptoms without making your drowsy.

Don't overdo it.
Many people tend to do too much while they are sick, which only prolongs the duration of your cold. Instead of staying busy, make sure you take some time off to de-stress and relax. Avoid situations, people, and activities that drain you of your energy and instead rest, sleep, and let your body heal itself.

Know when to see the doctor
If your head cold worsens or lasts more than 10 days, it could signify something more serious, like a sinus infection or worse. If you are resting, drinking plenty of fluids, and taking medicine and your symptoms are not going away, see the doctor to see what is going on.

Prevention is key
Once you conquer your head cold, you can prevent future ones by taking preventative measures. Washing your hands, taking medicine like Airborne when you are going to be working with people or in airplanes or classrooms, plenty of rest, and fluids will all keep your body in top shape and help defend it against future head colds.