I feel myself getting sick! How can I stop it?

If you woke up this morning thinking, "I feel myself getting sick! How can I stop it?" then keep reading. Here are a few ways that could help ward off the start of a cold.

Being sick is never fun. Not only do you feel your absolute worst, you have to spend time trying to protect others from your germs. It can be especially crummy during cold season, when you may be getting sick more often. Prevention should be the goal even before the cold and flu season starts, however there are steps you can take when you feel like you're already getting sick.

Among the common symptoms you may feel include:

• Low energy
• Mild sore throat
• Chills
• Mild nose congestion
• Sneezing
• Fever

Although they won't guarantee your cold won't get worse, these remedies can reduce the risk of it dragging on any longer.

• Gargling with salt water
• Rinsing nose and sinuses with warm salt water
• Warm clear liquids such as tea and chicken soup
• Increased vitamin C consumption (think lemon)
• Increased antioxidant consumption (think garlic)
• Take extra vitamins
• Eat well-balanced, light meals
• Get plenty of rest
• Dress warmly
• Wash hands to prevent further infection or re-infection

Depending on what ails you, and should it continue to worsen, you may still be able to get away with mild interventions such as the following:

• Over-the-counter cough syrups to help alleviate coughs.
• Antihistamines to prevent leaky sinuses, watery eyes and sneezing.
• Over-the-counter decongestants to help you breathe.
• Antibiotics – as prescribed by a doctor – for bacterial infections such as strep throat.

Remember that there is no cure for viral infections, such as the flu or common cold. The symptoms can be relieved, but the infection itself has to be cleared by your immune system. To treat this sickness, stay home, rest a lot and do not over stress or work your body too hard, as it needs energy to fight the virus.

• Equally as important, antibiotics do not work for viral infections. If taken unnecessarily, antibiotics may only serve to make the undesirable bacteria in your system "tougher" to their effects.

In fact, getting plenty of rest is usually the best key to recovery. If possible, take a day off work and avoid any kind of strenuous activities. By relaxing and taking it easy, you'll allow your body the chance to gain some strength and fight off that impending virus. You may just feel good as new tomorrow morning!