Is there a way to get rid of a cold fast? Some say there is!

Plugged-up nose, sore throat, cough, fever—being sick is always a bummer. What’s the best way to help get rid of a cold—fast? We'll tell you.

Are you an adult? Well, according to the experts, you could easily have to fight off two to five colds every year, not to mention a good bout of seasonal flu that could keep you in bed for several days. But did you know that there is a quick way to get rid of a cold fast? Now you’re curious, aren’t you? But first of all, you have to know how to tell a cold from the flu.

A cold is a benign infection of the nose, the nasal passages, and the throat. And remember, the term benign means harmless or not serious.

The most common symptoms of a cold are the following:

• Sneezing
• Runny or congested nose
• Sore throat
• Hoarseness
• Coughing

The flu is a severe viral infection. It seems to creep up on you suddenly; you’re feeling fine at lunch, then just a few hours later you feel like you’ve been knocked off your feet. The flu affects both the upper and the lower respiratory tracts, namely the nose and throat, sinuses, ears, and lungs. The influenza virus causes the flu and it is a very contagious one. Consider yourself warned—keep well away from anyone with the flu!

The most common symptoms of the flu are the following:

• Sore throat
• Coughing
• Headache
• Fever
• Body aches
• Intense fatigue
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite

To help get rid of a cold fast, you have to rest and drink a lot of water. Think this treatment is a little too simplistic? Well, you’re right—but it works. Resting allows the immune system to recover more quickly, while water helps prevent dehydration and liquefy the awful mucus that forces you to breathe through your nose. If it’s a cold, the symptoms will last between three and 10 days.

The flu can prove to be a bit more difficult to manage. It could keep you weak for two or three weeks, and may even force you to head to your local medical clinic for an antiviral medication prescription.

Relieve the symptoms of a cold and the flu with certain over-the-counter medications. Don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist for advice. However, if complications arise, you should get checked out immediately. Call your doctor or go to a clinic immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• A fever that persists more than 48 hours or that is over 39.5 °C
• A skin rash
• Respiratory problems
• Chest pain
• Substantial stiffness in the neck
• Inability to urinate for 12 hours
• Confusion

To get rid of a cold or flu as fast as possible, don’t go searching through the department of miracles. Get lots of rest; drink plenty of water, and go see a doctor if the symptoms intensify or persist – a sign that something more serious could be brewing.