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It seems like this season, people are catching all kinds of colds and allergies. My whole family has gotten sick within this month, including myself. Although the following are not a cure all solution, the following have helped my cold symptoms from getting worse:

1. Echinacea (wikipedia , National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine ,Herbal Information Center,
   University of Maryland Medical Center , Drugs.com )

   At the first sign of a sore throat, it is recommended to take echinacea. It is believed to help fight off infection and reduce the duration of the cold symptoms.

2. Eating a balanced diet (My pyramid )

   Eating a balanced diet helps body build antibodies to find infections and common colds. It is also suggested that meals be split into many smaller portions, as the body won’t accumulate access fat.

3. Emergen-C or other dietary vitamin supplements (Emergen-C , Web MD )

   High doses of vitamin C and other supplements may boost your immune system to better fight colds.

4. Sinus Rinse

   This is a great product that has helped me fight allergies and nasal infections. There are specific guidelines however so it’s important to read instructions. For example, this should not be used if you have an ear infection or your nose is completely congested.

5. Zinc Lozenges (Medicine Net , Annals of Internal Medicine , American Academy of Anti-aging Medicine )

   I found zinc lozenges help soothe the throat, as well as cut the duration of the cold. I also interchange the lozenges with cough drops when I don’t want to be coughing in public.

6. Plenty of rest (Medicine Net )

   When you’re sick, it is hard to get a full night of deep sleep. However, it is essential for the body to rejuvenate, as it takes much energy for the body to fight the the infection or virus. I used certain over-the-counter drugs such as NyQuil or Tylenol Night time, but I would consult with a physician because everyone’s body is different.