The common cold is caused by a number of viruses, and it is typically most prevalent during the late fall and winter months. While the viruses that cause colds are very common, that doesn't mean that catching a cold can't make you miserable. Dealing with a cold can involve feeling awful, and in some cases, it can be difficult to maintain your normal daily life and go to work if you feel especially bad. Since colds are caused by viruses, there is no cure, but there are measures that can be taken to help you feel better. If you're suffering from a nasty cold, use the following tips:

Get as Much Rest as Possible

While colds are not usually as bad as influenza, they can leave you feeling wiped out, physically drained, and overall unwell. Many people believe that colds are no big deal, but if you don't take proper care of yourself when you are ill, your illness is more likely to drag out, and you can feel awful for a lot longer. If you have a really bad cold, it is in your best interest to get as much sleep and rest as possible. If you're able to stay home from work or other obligations, do so in order to minimize the spread of your illness.

Pick Up Medication

While there are no medications that can cure a cold, there are a number that can help with the symptoms that people most often suffer from. As soon as you feel a cold coming on, stop by your local drug store to buy some medication for cold symptoms. Having medication on hand will make it easier to keep your cold symptoms at bay, and buying medications in advance will help ensure that you do not need to go to the store for cold treatments when you're feeling your worst.

Know When to See Your Doctor

Since the common cold is caused by viruses, there is not much that your primary care physician can do to help you if you're sick However, it is not uncommon for people to develop secondary illnesses when they are battling a cold. If you have a bad cold, it is important to pay attention to your body and note how you are feeling. In some cases, people with bad colds can develop bacterial infections, such as a sinus infection, which requires antibiotics to treat. It is also possible to develop bacterial bronchitis, another illness that requires antibiotics.