Currently, I have a cold. When I get a cold, I do everything that I can to feel better fast. Like many of you, I don’t want to miss work because I can’t afford it. Try some of my ideas to kick your cold in the butt and feel better sooner.
Sleep
When you feel a cold coming on, go to bed early. Get as much rest as you can. Let your partner or family know that you are sick and that you need your rest. You shouldn’t feel guilty for going to bed early or sleeping in because this is when you need it most. If you are coughing, sneezing or your throat hurts, stay home from work. Your co-workers will appreciate it.
Eat
Make sure that you are eating well when you feel a cold coming on. Have your family make you some chicken soup. Chicken soup, or any soup warms you up when you have the chills. If you have a sore throat, try a smoothie. The vitamins in all the fruit will be good for you.
Drink
Drink plenty of water and juices when you are feeling a cold coming on. Warm tea (decaffeinated) and honey is great for a sore throat or cough. Avoid caffeine and energy drinks when you have, or think you are getting a cold. Caffeine will dehydrate you and that is definitely not what you want when you have or are getting a cold. Keeping yourself hydrated will defiantly help kick your cold in the butt!
Heat
Body aches and chills are a common symptom of colds and flus. Try using a heating pad or heating blanket at these times. A heating pad will relax sore muscles and put your body at ease. A heating blanket will warm you up when you feel the chills down to the bone.
Bathe
Take a nice, warm bubble bath when you have a bad cold. The warm water will help to relax your muscles and relieve stress and tension. It may also help to clear congestion and sinus pressure.
Wash
Wash your hands frequently. Every time you use the bathroom, sneeze, wipe your nose, or cough, wash your hands. Use anti-bacterial soap and remind your family to do the same. Not washing your hands is the easiest way to get the rest of your family or office sick.
Dress
Dress warm and in layers when you have, or think you are getting a cold. Dressing this way will allow you to take off layers when you are feeling warm and comfortable. When you are feeling cold or the chills are coming on, you can add layers until you are comfortable again. Dress comfortably and wear warm socks or slippers when walking around the house.
Support
Support your immune system when you feel a cold coming on. I’m a big fan of taking Airborne when other people in my home or at my office are getting sick. The extra vitamins will support your immune system and help your body fight the cold germs. Another great option is Zicam. Zicam is a cold remedy containing Zinc. It will help reduce the severity and duration of your cold.
Clean
When you are sick, make sure that you family is thoroughly cleaning the hot spots in your home. The bathroom and kitchen are places where germs are spread easily. An anti-bacterial cleaner should be used on faucets, sinks, counter-tops, kitchen table, and toilets. Spray Lysol or an anti-bacterial spray on couches and pillows that cannot be washed with soap and water. Make sure all dishes are washed in a dishwasher or with warm water and anti-bacterial dish soap. During this time, the trash will fill up rapidly with tissues, so make sure to have your family take it out often.
Visit
Visit the Doctor if you have a fever, sore throat, or persistent cough that isn’t getting better within a few days. Your doctor may be able to prescribe you some medication such as antibiotics that can help you kick your cold in the butt if nothing else seems to be working.
