How can I stop a cold in its tracks?

Asked by livelaughlove21 (15724) September 26th, 2013 from iPhone

I got a pretty bad cold back in August that lasted about a week. For the past two days, I’ve felt like there’s something at the back of my throat when I swallow – the first symptom I experienced a couple of months ago. Yay for me.

I exercise regularly, eat right, and wash my hands often. Two colds within a month and a half? This isn’t normal for me. A lot of people on campus seem to have colds, though.

What are the best things I can get over the counter to prevent or shorten this cold, since it seems I caught it early? Google has failed me today and I can’t find anything useful there, so I’m hoping one of you will suggest what works for you. I’m already drinking plenty of fluids.

I tried Zicam awhile back and it didn’t work. It also left a horrible metallic taste in my mouth for days.