As someone who as just spent the weekend with a cold, sickness is definitely nothing fun to deal with. I started taking action to try and get myself to get over this nasty cold as quick as possible. So while the flu is starting to go around and colds are popping up everywhere, why not write down a few tips for getting over a cold faster?

Medicines

I try and use as few medications as possible, avoiding cough medicine almost all together. But a few work really well for me and I figured I'd share them.

Zicam is one of your greatest friends. I thought the first time I tried it that it was just a hoax and it didn't work, but if you actually keep up with taking it, you feel better even throughout your cold.

NyQuil is one of the only other medicines I take. It helps me get to sleep at night and reduce some of the congestion for the night.

Cough drops. Halls or Ricola are some of the best to use. They really help soothe the throat and zap the cough, even if it is just for a little while. It can be enough to give you a bit of a break to breathe.

Sleeping Techniques

Vicks. Wear Vicks. It helps so much to rub some on your chest before bed. Also, if you have a humidifier with a Vicks insert, use that. I had one as a kid and really wish I still had it. It worked wonders throughout the night.

Prop yourself up. I usually use a bunch of pillows and stuffed animals for this. If you are someone who has to sleep flat, prop your entire bed up.

Food and Drink

Go for foods that aren't too acidic. Crackers, pasta, bread, or anything of the sort are the best. Cold foods like ice cream or popsicles help with a sore throat.

Avoid dairy. Dairy makes congestion worse and when you are sick that is the last thing you want.

Hot tea is good to drink, just make sure you drink enough water to balance out the caffeine consumption. The last thing you want to be is dehydrated.

Other Techniques

A hot pack on the chest if you have chest congestion helps loosen the mucus. You end up coughing a lot more, but it makes you feel better and less congested.

Boil water and put it in a bowl. Take a towel and drape it over your head and lean over the bowl. The steam helps clean out your nasal congestion and feels amazing.

Taking a hot bath is another way to help with the steam, or a steamy shower. Steam can be one of your best friends when you are sick.