• Blow your nose often when you have a cold.tissue box image by morsted from Fotolia.com
  
  Since there is no cure for the common cold, focus on comfort care when treating cold symptoms. Comfort care provides relief from symptoms, but there is no over-the-counter remedy that will shorten the duration of your illness. Cold relief treats bothersome symptoms and supports your body so your immune system can do its job.
  
  

Fluids

• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broth, or warm lemon juice, to avoid dehydration from fever and excess congestion, says MayoClinc.com. WebMd.com suggests drinking warmer fluids because warm fluids help prevent dehydration, relieve nasal congestion, and soothe inflammation in the nose and throat. Add honey to your tea to coat and soothe your throat.
  
  Drinking chicken soup is another excellent way to increase your fluid intake. According to the Mayo Clinic Staff, chicken soup acts an anti-inflammatory agent and decongestant.
  
  

Gargle

• Gargle with saltwater up to four times daily to help relieve a sore throat. Add half a teaspoon of salt to an 8-ounce glass of warm water and stir until the salt completely dissolves. Gargle for about 30 seconds and spit the saltwater into the sink.
  
  

Blow Your Nose

• Blow your nose regularly to prevent sinus infection and pressure. Blow one nostril at a time, pushing the other closed with your finger, rather than blowing both nostrils simultaneously. This helps prevent ear pain and clears your nose more quickly. Wash your hands every time you blow your nose, and discard used tissues immediately.
  
  

Rest

• Rest is important because it enables your body to function at its peak. It also allows your body to use most of its energy to fight your cold. Even if you cannot sleep, save energy by doing something that doesn't require a lot of energy, such as reading or watching television.
  
  

Get Steamy

• Moist air soothes nasal passages, improves congestion and cough, and relaxes you. Take advantage of humid air by sitting in the bathroom with the shower running; you can also use a cool-mist humidifier or vaporizer. Make sure your humidifier or vaporizer has clean water and is cleaned after each use to keep it free of mold and bacteria.
  
  

Use Compresses

• If your sinuses or head aches, use a hot or cold compress for quick relief. You can make a compress pack by wetting and freezing a washcloth; WebMd.com recommends wetting and microwaving a washcloth for about 55 seconds. Always check the temperature of the compress for comfort before you put it on your face.