Reading a book, catching up on your favorite TV show, listening to music in bed, and calling someone on the phone. Be aware that antibiotics are not effective against viral infections and that, in general, you need to simply rest and allow your body to combat the virus.
Try to stay away from alcohol or caffeinated beverages, as these types of drinks can actually dehydrate you further.
Take at least two days off of work or school to avoid getting other people sick. If you absolutely have to go into work or school, wear a mask to prevent others from becoming infected. The mask will prevent contagious particles from spreading through the air, especially if you are coughing or sneezing.
Gargling saltwater (a quarter to half of a teaspoon of salt in one cup of water is recommended) is another way to ease the pain of a sore throat.
Eat fruits that have high amounts of vitamin C. These include grapefruit, kiwi, strawberries, lemon, lime, blackberries, oranges, papaya, pineapple, pomelo, and raspberries. [4] X Research source Eat vegetables that are rich in vitamin C. These include Brussel sprouts, broccoli, onions, garlic, red and green peppers, tomatoes, and radishes. You can also consider making vegetable soup, if you don’t like eating raw veggies. [5] X Research source
You can also add onions, garlic, and other veggies to your soup to boost its vitamin and mineral count.
The regular, adult dose for Acetaminophen is 325-650 mg tablets, one tablet every four hours. Read the bottle to learn about other doses, such as those for children. [7] X Research source The regular, adult dose for Ibuprofen is 400-600 mg, once every six hours until your symptoms ease up. [8] X Research source
Nasal decongestants, such as Afrin, are only recommended if you have severe congestion problems, because using a nasal spray too often can cause your symptoms of congestion to rebound after you stop using the spray. They should be used no longer than three days in a row to avoid rebound, and should not be used on children. Corticosteroid nasal sprays, such as Flonase, are generally used to treat chronic symptoms, as it may take several days before you notice any improvement. Still, they can sometimes be helpful in combatting the symptoms of a viral infection. Talk to your doctor, and do not use corticosteroid medication on children under four. [10] X Research source
Over-the-counter preparations are safe in adults, as long as careful attention is paid to not accidentally double up on any of the ingredients with other medications. Avoid using cough syrups in children under the age of two. Examples of terms to watch for include antitussive, which is a cough suppressant; mucolytic, which breaks up and loosens mucus.
Zinc has been shown to be most effective when taken for two to three days at the beginning of a cold or flu. Start taking zinc as soon as you think you may be getting sick. You can also purchase lozenges that contain zinc, which you can suck on. You can buy these and other zinc supplements at your local pharmacy. Do not take zinc supplements if you take antibiotics (such as tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones), Penicillamine (a drug used in Wilson’s disease), or Cisplatin (a medication used in cancer), due to the fact that zinc decreases the efficiency of these drugs.
Other natural remedies to consider include eucalyptus, elderberry, honey, and reishi and shiitake mushrooms.
Developing a rash A high fever generally more than 103°F (39. 4°C) Getting worse after starting to feel better Prolonged symptoms for longer than 10 days A cough that brings up colored phlegm Wheezing or trouble breathing
Be mindful of the fact that getting vaccinated involves getting a shot or two; however, this should not deter you — the benefits of the vaccine are worth the short period of discomfort the shot causes.
