1. Master Your Environment

While you can't control the world, hopefully you can control the space you occupy so that it's kinder to inflamed sinuses.

Try: Making it warm and moist -- so your sinuses stay moist, which can aid drainage (Humidifiers, vaporizers, or a warm shower should do the trick.)

2. Put the Kibosh on Pain

A stuffy, runny nose is bad enough. Add pain to the mix and you'll feel downright wretched. So kick pain to the curb right away.

Try: Applying ice and/or heat packs -- for relief of pain and pressure due to congestion and inflammation

Gargling with a bit of salt water -- for relief of a sore throat brought on by postnasal drip

3. Baby Your Nose

Whether you're fighting off allergies, a sinus infection, or a cold, you've got lots of options for dealing with symptoms right away.

Try: Limiting irritants -- like chlorinated pools, temperature changes, and secondhand smoke, to reduce nasal irritation

Getting wet -- with a saline nasal spray or a neti pot, which can provide quick nasal clearing.