The common cold and the flu season are here, which can cause similar and irritating symptoms for patients. Even though most patients can rest off common cold symptoms, it is important to know the most effective treatment options for a cold.

Commons colds are caused by rhinoviruses and can’t be vaccinated like the influenza virus. Any patient is at risk for getting a cold during the coldest times of the year: late November to the middle of February. Most children and adults are likely to have multiple common colds in their lifetime, which means that at-home treatment is key to ensuring that you can stay healthy throughout each cold/flu season!

Whenever your symptoms start to become more and more advanced, it is helpful to visit a local urgent care center to get treatment. Urgent care providers are skilled in providing immediate and affordable symptom relief for your colds!

So, what can you do in order to treat your common cold symptoms at home?

Get plenty of rest when sick

The most well-known medical advice that more and more patients need to practice is getting rest once they get sick. Simply resting is the best way to allow your immune system to fight of viruses and bacteria that cause the flu.

Sometimes, patients will try and go into work even though rest is the best option for recovery. Consult your nearby healthcare provider to learn why you need rest, and use that sick time to heal properly!

Use over-the-counter medications

Over-the-counter medications are also useful to help reduce the irritation from certain flu symptoms such as fever, headache, sneezing, congestion, and similar symptoms!

Make sure you talk to a healthcare expert to determine if you have any outstanding health conditions that could impact your use of pharmacy medications. However, the good news is that most patients can use over-the-counter therapies to manage cold symptoms!

Drink fluids and maintain strong personal hygiene

Replenishing fluids is the key to ensuring that your recovery speeds up from a common cold. Drink plenty of water as dehydration can exacerbate common symptoms cause further irritation. Other types of fluids like soups and warm, soothing beverages can help to lower irritation and also improve hydration.

Personal hygiene is also key to ensure that your cold symptoms don’t worse and prevent other rhinoviruses from another infection. Use tissues and toss them a waste basket after using them, wash your hands throughout the day, and maintain a clean personal space!