How to Get Rid of a Cold Fast
We all hate getting sick. The best advice is to avoid it in the first place by washing or sanitizing hands frequently (sanitizing hand wipes are great). And avoid crowds or people. But we assume the fact you are reading this means it is too late - you already have the cold.
We are not doctors and suggest you consult a doctor to make sure you have a cold and not something more serious. Never self medicate without a doctors' advice.
Antibiotics do not work on a cold because they work on bacteria and colds are caused by virus. A simple indication of a cold is clear mucus where bacterial infections are often accompanied by yellow or greenish. Sometimes allergies are mistaken for a cold. If you are prone to them, retrace your steps to think of what.
The problem with getting rid of a cold fast is there is little scientific research that proves things work. Here are 8 things to try to get rid of a cold fast:
1 - Zinc. According to the Mayo Clinic, zinc is effective in reducing the length and intensity of a cold. There are many over the counter remedies with zinc including zinc capsules and Zinc Lozenges. They are easy to find. The bad after taste bothers some people.
2 - Drink plenty of fluids. Fluids help us rid ourselves of toxins. When we have a cold, we need to drink more. Water, tea, juice - anything works. Cold or hot can both soothe a sore throat.
3 - Saline nasal drops and saline sprays work. They are simple to use and have no known side effects (except of course the need to blow your nose after you use them.
4 - Over the counter cold remedies. There are lots of them - capsules, pills and drinks (see 2 - above). They tend to reduce symptoms and not necessarily reduce the length of the cold.
5 - Chicken soup. It has been around as a cure for years. It certainly is soothing. It works as an anti inflammatory thins the mucus.
6 - Humidity can help. A good humidifier or vaporizer can help clear the airways.
7 - Old faithful - Vitamin C is thought to help. Natural ones made from Rose Hip work well.
8 - Herbal remedies. There are a number of herbal remedies that people use. Common ones include echinacea, goldenseal, ginseng, pelargonium sidoides and ginger root (tea made with ginger, honey and lemon juice is soothing).
And psychologically, know that it will pass and likely sooner than you think.