The winter season is upon us, and we all know what that means: The common cold.

As college students, medical bills can be expensive, and we don’t always have the time for an hour-long doctors visit either. Colds can take a few weeks to get over, and no one wants to feel miserable for that long.

Luckily, there are some at-home remedies that can assist, prevent and tackle the symptoms of these pesky sicknesses.

Stay Hydrated (obviously): Everyone should be drinking water, but sometimes it just doesn’t feel good on a sore throat. Regardless, it’s important to try and stay hydrated. If your throat is feeling scratchy, try to sip on a warm glass of water or tea with some lemon. Chicken or vegetable broth are also known to help relieve symptoms of congestion.

Salt water gargles and a spoon full of honey: If you have or feel a cough coming on, this one’s for you. Warm up a glass of water, mix in some salt and gargle it for two minutes or so. You can also repeat this throughout the day. To soothe the dry throat that’s causing your cough, take a spoon full of honey down the hatchet. You’ll feel the soothing effects almost immediately.

Sleep: Your body always needs sleep to stay healthy, even if you’re not sick. In fact, lack of sleep can actually cause your immune system to weaken. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, especially if you have a cold. Being tired will only make you feel worse.

Hot showers: Something many people take for granted. A nice steamy shower will not only relax you, but it will also aid in clearing out your sinuses. Light a candle and let the relaxation begin.

Avoid caffeine and alcohol: Coffee might wake you up, but it will also dehydrate you. If you’re looking for something warm on your throat, try some hot chocolate or tea instead. Alcohol will also dehydrate you. It might feel good in the moment, but you won’t feel so great the next day. If you’re battling a cold, try to stay in for the weekend.

Over the counter medicine: If some of these remedies just aren’t doing it for you, go to your local CVS or Walgreens. They have affordable medications that can help relieve cold symptoms as well.

Diffusers: Adding a little moisture to the air can go a long way when you’re dealing with a dry throat and runny nose. A humidifier or diffuser can help in refreshing the air you breathe. Add some lavender or eucalyptus oils to your diffuser and call it a night.

If your symptoms begin to worsen and it starts to feel like more than a common cold, make sure you see a doctor.

For more tips and tricks on some home remedies, click here.

_

For more information or news tips, or if you see an error in this story or have any compliments or concerns, contact editor@unfspinnaker.com.