How Can I Treat a Common Cold?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, millions of Americans are affected by the common cold each year. So if you fall victim to a cold this year, you are far from alone!

Our team at AFC Urgent Care Centennial wants you to be aware of the early signs of a common cold, as well as ways to treat your symptoms and get back to feeling your best.

How Do We Catch a Cold?

Although common colds are most often experienced during the winter season, they really can occur at any time of the year.

A cold virus most commonly spreads through tiny air droplets through the air, which are the result of when a person who is sick sneezes, blows his or her nose or coughs.

Ways to Prevent a Cold

• Improve your immune system.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Wash your hands on a regular basis.
• Exercise regularly.
• Do not touch your face, especially your eyes or nose.
• Follow a healthy diet.

How Can I Get Rid of a Cold Fast?

Let's face it. As soon as you start experiencing the symptoms of a cold, you want them to go away as soon as possible. Therefore, you need to take action as soon as signs of a common cold appear.

First, you want to make sure you drink plenty of fluids and get lots of rest. Second, you want to relieve pain and soothe a sore throat through over-the-counter medications. Finally, sipping on warm liquids, as well as eating certain beneficial foods, can help you to get past a cold sooner rather than later.

Good Foods for a Cold

• Ginger
• Garlic
• Hot tea
• Honey
• Spicy foods
• Chicken soup
• Broths
• Coconut water

Not sure if you have a cold, the flu or allergies? Visit AFC Urgent Care Centennialtoday for a medical evaluation to get to feeling as good as new!