For allergy and asthma sufferers, getting a cold is not just an inconvenience. Combined with the congestion, stuffiness, and other symptoms brought on by allergy attacks, colds can lead to bigger problems, like sinusitis. Therefore, it is particularly important for those with allergies and asthma to do all they can to keep from getting sick. The website WebMD, in a feature called Don't Let a Cold Get You Down, offers the following tips:

• Avoid touching your eyes and nose, especially when in public. These passages are the most hospitable entry points for the cold virus to enter your body.



• Try to refrain from unnecessary physical contact, such as handshakes, whenever possible. Close contact with people carrying the virus could lead to your catching it.



• The viruses that cause colds can rest on surfaces for 24 or more. Be conscious of touching public surfaces such as shopping cart handles, doorknobs, tabletops, and other surfaces. When possible, sanitize them, or just don't touch them.



• Wash your hands frequently, especially after being out. Don't touch your eyes or nose.



• Get 8 hours of good sleep every night. This drastically boosts your immune system.



• Maintain a positive outlook on life. Those who are happy, lively, and calm are better able to fight off colds.