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2017 update: Links have been updated below; you may also want to check out our latest discussion of how to pamper yourself when you’re sick. What do you do if you think you’re getting sick — and what are your best tips on how to ward off a cold? We’ve talked about how to work when you’re sick, as well as whether you should cancel client meetings if you’re sick and “heavily drugged with cold medicine.” But I think we’ve all been there: you wake up and feel that nasty tickle in the back of your throat, or perhaps you sneeze twice (when you always only sneeze once) — and you can tell: it is coming. So what do you do to ward off the sickness, or make it pass faster? (Pictured:- I use Zicam’s zinc spray or melts, at the very least before going to bed (if not first thing getting up and at regular intervals thereafter). I hate the way it makes my mouth feel — HATE IT — but I always tell myself that I would rather have my mouth feel like carpeting for a few minutes than get sick for a few days.
- I drink as much water as I possibly can. Seriously, a LOT. I kind of have a “pee it out” mentality, if you’ll pardon the vulgarity. (I also do this with my son, for what it’s worth — if he’s been around a sick person, or seems like he might be getting sick, he gets as many “10% juice/90% water” cocktails as he can drink.)
- I avoid dehydrating things if at all possible, and limit my coffee and alcohol intake.
- I try to get a good night’s sleep if possible.