5 tips to get you back on your feet after a cough or cold this season | Senior Living

3. Drink plenty of fluids

Staying hydrated is important not just for the healing process when you’re sick, but to keep your throat and nose moistened, which can help relieve the most miserable symptoms of your cold. WebMD recommends³ drinking plenty of fluids, cold or hot, that help you feel better when you are suffering from a cold. From water or sports drinks to herbal teas and fruit juices, there are a variety of options to ensure you are staying hydrated.

WebMD⁴ also recommends gargling with warm salt water or tea and honey to help provide temporary relief for a scratchy or sore throat.

Colds are often experienced when the weather is cold outside and thus, the thermostat is higher than usual inside, causing dry heat and air. However, restoring moisture in the air can help ease your symptoms. Try a room humidifier or take a steamy shower or bath to help moisturize your throat and nasal passages, further easing cold symptoms like sore throat, stuffiness and coughing.

5. Eat well to help fight your cold

As the old saying goes: feed a cold and starve a fever. While “feeding” your cold does not make it go away, it is a good idea to incorporate more healthy foods to support your overall well-being as you fight off cold symptoms. Healthy foods can include fresh fruits, vegetables and other good sources of vitamins and nutrients. And yes, that certainly includes the time-honored chicken soup.