The hour-by-hour guide of combating a cold before it takes a toll on you!

WASHINGTON - Is a cold taking a toll on you and you don’t know how to get rid of it? Well, don’t panic as an expert gives you some simple steps to lessen your agony.

Holly Phillips of WCBS-TV in New York gives you an hour-by-hour cold-fighting countdown, reports CBS News.

Hour 1: Drink plenty of fluids

Staying hydrated cuts down on symptoms like a sore throat and stuffy nose, and may help boost your immune system.

Hour 3: Gargle with warm salt water

Salt water reduces inflammation and pain in the throat, and clears mucous. The rinse also flushes out bacteria and viruses, which may help whether you’re getting a cold or want to prevent one in the first place.

Hour 5: Use saline nasal spray

Studies suggest using a saline nasal spray right after cold symptoms appear may reduce their impact. And it can help prevent developing sinusitis after your cold.

Hour 7: Take over-the-counter pain relievers or decongestants

Pain relievers such as Advil, Motrin or Tylenol can fight off achiness. Decongestants, such as Sudafed, help dry up mucous if you need to go to work. But skip the over-the-counter cough medicine. Studies suggest just sipping on tea with honey is as effective.

Hour 24: Repeat routine

If you feel worse or have a fever, start vomiting, or develop an increasingly bad headache, call your doctor-those are signs you’ve got something other than the common cold (such as flu or an bacterial infection), and you may need antiviral medication, antibiotics, or other treatment. (ANI)