How to Get Rid of a Head Cold

Head colds can develop at any time throughout the year, but they're common in winter. Although head colds aren't the flu or a serious illness, they can impact a person's daily routine and cause a range of symptoms (sore throat, runny nose and headache). Thus, many people are interested in ways to get rid of a head cold fast.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Cold Medication
• Soup
• Water
• Vitamin C

1. Use cold medications. Cold medicines include ingredients such as acetaminophen, dextromethorphan and pseudoephedrine, which stop body aches, suppress coughs and relieve nasal congestion.

2. Drink plenty of fluids. Your body loses fluids when you blow your nose. To replace these fluids, drink plenty of water, teas or juices. Stay away from caffeinated beverages. These drinks can dehydrate the body.

3. Eat chicken soup. A post nasal drip is common with head colds. In turn, you may develop a sore throat. Chicken soup soothes the throat. What's more, soup relives nasal congestion and thins mucus.

4. Get plenty of rest. Depending on the severity of your head cold, you may consider staying home from work or school. Severe congestion can make you feel lightheaded. Also, resting can boost the immune system and help you fight infections.

5. Take a vitamin C supplements. Vitamin C is an immune system booster, and it can help you get over a head cold sooner. Take about 200 milligrams a day. You can receive vitamin C from orange juice, fruits and supplements.

6. Blow your nose regularly. Blowing your nose removes mucus from the nasal passage, which relieves congestion and helps you recover more quickly.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Mayo Clinic--Head Cold