How to Get Rid of a Summer Cold

Colds are often associated with cold weather, and most people deal with at least one cold in the winter. However, the virus that causes a cold can strike when it's hot, too, and you might develop a summer cold. A summer cold can interfere with your outdoor and vacation plans. But fortunately, there are ways to quickly get rid of the infection.

Things You'll Need

• Medication, Supplements Chicken soup

Instructions

1. Buy over-the-counter drugs. Take medication at the first sign of a summer cold. Cold medications include ingredients such as a decongestant, pain reliever and cough suppressant to ease symptoms. Take medication as directed.

2. Increase vitamin C intake. To fight the infection and get rid of a summer cold quickly, take vitamin C supplements and drink plenty of orange juice.

3. Drink plenty of water. Water is another important fluid. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day to flush toxins from your body.

4. Get plenty of rest. Outdoor activities are plentiful in the summer. But if you're trying to get rid of a summer cold, limit physical activity and get plenty of rest. Adequate sleep and rest improves your immune system, making you better able to fight off a cold.

5. Eat chicken soup. Chest congestion and sore throat are common with summer colds. Chicken soup thins mucus in the chest. Also, the warmth from the soup can relieve a sore throat.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash your hands frequently to avoid infecting others with a summer cold. Gargle with warm salt water to ease a sore throat. Along with chicken soap, drink water to thin mucus and clear congestion. Blow your nose frequently.

• Allergies or hay fever can mimic the symptoms of a summer cold. If your symptoms do not improve with cold medications, experiment with allergy medications.

References

• Kids Health - Cold
• Mayo Clinic - Common Cold