How to Get Rid of Cold Symptoms

Cold season can be a miserable time of year as you attempt to go about your normal schedule despite coughing, sneezing and a drippy or stuffy nose. While there is no cure for the common cold, relieving symptoms can make the difference between feeling all right or miserable. Aside from taking over-the-counter cold medicine, there are measures you can take at home to help get rid of cold symptoms long enough to make it through the day.

Things You'll Need

• Glass
• 1/2 tsp. table salt
• Saline nasal spray
• Over-the-counter cold medicine
• Humidifier
• Wash cloth
• Eucalyptus essential oil
• Large towel

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Instructions

• 1

  Table salt and warm water help to relieve a sore throat.

  Mix 1/2 tsp. table salt with 8 ounces warm water in a glass. Gargle with the salt water for 30 seconds to relieve a sore throat due to your cold.

• 2

  Squirt nasal saline spray in each nostril, according to directions. Saline solution relieves nasal congestion so you can breathe easier and more comfortably.

• 3

  Take over-the-counter cold medicine, as needed. If you're having difficulty sleeping due to your cold symptoms, take nighttime medicine for relief of your symptoms, as well as to help you sleep.

• 4

  Run a humidifier to add moisture to your room or home. The humidifier helps relieve your symptoms while also reducing cold germs' ability to thrive.

• 5

  Warm heat helps relieve nasal congestion.

  Wet a washcloth with water that's hot but won't burn the skin. Hold the washcloth over your nose and cheeks to relieve sinus pressure due to your cold. Heat soothes the sinuses and helps drain congestion.

• 6

  Place a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil in a sink filled with hot, steaming water. Drape a towel over your head and lean over the scented hot water. Remain there for 10 minutes so the steam and eucalyptus can clear your nasal passages.