Finding Relief From Common Cold Symptoms: Expert Advice and Treatment From Hammonton’s Trusted Urgent Care Providers
The common cold is a frequent and often frustrating illness that typically resolves on its own in about a week. While not serious for most people, its symptoms—such as a stuffy nose, sore throat, mild fever, and tiredness—can make daily life uncomfortable. Although home care is usually sufficient, professional common cold treatment is available at Cape Regional Urgent Care in Hammonton, New Jersey, when needed.
Since there is no cure for the common cold, treatment generally focuses on relieving symptoms and improving comfort. With the right combination of hydration, OTC remedies, and rest, most people start to feel better within a few days. Here’s what to do:
Stay Hydrated to Support Your Body
Drinking plenty of fluids is one of the best ways to relieve cold symptoms and help your body function at its best. In addition to providing essential hydration, fluids like plain water, herbal teas, and warm broths can soothe throat irritation and loosen nasal congestion. Another great choice is chicken soup, which can provide both nourishment and comfort while aiding in decongestion. During recovery, it’s best to avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration and worsen cold symptoms.
Use Over-the-Counter Medications to Ease Symptoms
Many effective common cold treatments are readily available over the counter without a prescription. Depending on your specific symptoms, you might benefit from an OTC pain reliever, fever reducer, decongestant, expectorant, cough suppressant, nasal spray, throat lozenge, or antihistamine. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully, especially when combining remedies, and check for age restrictions before administering medications to children. To further ease stuffiness, you might find it helpful to add moisture to your home with a cool-mist vaporizer or humidifier.
Prioritize Rest to Speed Up Your Recovery
Rest is an essential component of common cold treatment. By resting as much as possible when you are sick, you can allow your body to direct more energy toward boosting your immune system and fighting the infection. Essentially, when you are sleeping, your body can focus on healing instead of performing daily activities, potentially shortening the duration of your cold and hastening your recovery. Also, by staying home and resting, you will be less likely to spread your illness to others.
When to Visit Our Urgent Care Center
While most colds can be managed at home, there are times when professional medical attention may be necessary. You should consider visiting Cape Regional Urgent Care if:
- Your fever lasts longer than three days
- Your symptoms last longer than 10 days without showing any signs of improvement
- Your nasal congestion interferes with your breathing
- Your symptoms seem to be getting worse instead of better
The experienced team at Cape Regional Urgent Care is available seven days a week with no appointment necessary. The experienced and friendly team at our walk-in health center in Hammonton, NJ, provides prompt and effective common cold and sinus infection treatment for patients needing relief from severe or persistent symptoms. To streamline your visit with us, take advantage of our online check-in option before you leave home.
