Catching a Cold? 8 Things to Stop Doing Now

When you’re hit with a nasty bug, you want to feel better -- fast. But you could be sabotaging your body’s recovery efforts without even realizing it. These eight habits could make your cold or flu even worse, so kick them as soon as you start to feel sick.

1. STOP smoking. Cigarettes, including secondhand smoke, can raise your risk of respiratory infections and make your symptoms even worse. So stub out your butts while you’re under the weather -- or even better, permanently.
2. STOP bugging your doctor for antibiotics. And while you’re at it, stop rummaging through your medicine cabinet for leftover antibiotics, too. Antibiotics are useless against colds and the flu.
3. STOP acting like you can power through it. You feel too busy to take a sick day, or worry about letting your co-workers down. But if you’re contagious, they will thank you for staying home. Got flu-like symptoms? You shouldn’t return to the job until at least 24 hours after your fever is gone.
4. STOP stressing. Research shows that stress can make you more open to cold viruses and worsen symptoms once you’re feeling sick. Plus, it can prevent you from getting the sleep your body needs to get well. If you think you’re coming down with something, try to relax and get plenty of rest.
5. STOP using hand sanitizers instead of scrubbing up. Hand sanitizers are fine in a pinch, as long as they contain at least 60% alcohol. But thoroughly washing your hands with soap will get rid of germs better. For best results, scrub for at least 20 seconds (about the length of time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice.)
6. STOP relying too much on medicine. If used for more than a few days, decongestant nasal sprays will stop working and can even stuff you up more. Always follow the directions for any drugs you’re taking to treat your symptoms. For a more effective way to rinse out your sinuses and ease congestion, try using saline nose drops or sprays or a neti pot.
7. STOP sipping your usual latte. It may be tempting to power up with caffeine when you're feeling low on energy, but it's best to avoid it (and alcohol) while you’re sick, because they can make you dehydrated. Instead, have a steamy cup of decaffeinated tea mixed with a spoonful of honey. Hot drinks and honey temporarily ease symptoms like cough and sore throat. You might even sleep better. Never give honey to a child less than 1 year old, because it can cause an infection called infant botulism.
8. STOP neglecting to eat and drink. You may not have much of an appetite when you’re under the weather, but you need plenty of fluids. For a hydrating and comforting lunch, heat up a bowl of chicken soup. This folk remedy is backed by science. Research shows that the dish’s anti-inflammatory properties may help relieve cold symptoms.

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