Cold remedies that work

If you catch a cold, expect to be sick for 1 to 2 weeks. That doesn't mean you have to feel awful. The following might help you feel better:

• Drink plenty of fluids. Water, juice, clear broth or warm lemon water with honey helps loosen stuffiness, called congestion. These also help prevent losing too much fluid, called dehydration. Don't drink alcohol, coffee and sodas with caffeine. They can make dehydration worse.
• Rest. Your body needs rest to heal.
• Sip warm liquids. Many cultures use warm liquids, such as chicken soup, tea or warm apple juice, for colds. Warm liquids might ease stuffiness by increasing mucus flow.
• Try honey. Honey may help coughs in adults and children who are older than age 1. Try it in warm tea or lemon water.
• Add cool moisture to the air. A cool-mist vaporizer or humidifier can add moisture to your home. Moisture might help ease stuffiness. Change the water daily. Clean the unit as the maker instructs.