The first tickle at the back of the throat is usually followed by a familiar wave of dread.

"Oh noo, I'm getting sick," your internal monologue cries.

We asked doctors about the best things to do ? and what to avoid ? when you feel like you're coming down with a cold.

Focus on rest and fluids

Rural Doctors Association of Australia president RT Lewandowski has some disappointing news ? there isn't a way to cure a cold .

But he warns "you can do things to make yourself worse" and extend the length of a cold.

Dr Lewandowski says your immune system needs energy to fight a cold,?and you risk putting extra strain on your body if you continue with things like strenuous exercise when you're feeling unwell.

Chief medical officer at Healthdirect Australia Nirvana Luckraj says "the best course of action is to get plenty of rest. To keep hydrated by drinking lots of water , and also any other non-alcoholic fluids that would prevent dehydration such as warm cups of tea."

Dr Luckraj says if you rest, you are more likely to recover sooner .

She says over-the-counter cold and flu treatments can help to ease symptoms including a runny nose and a temperature, but they won't cure the common cold.

Do 'immunity boosting' products work?

While we might be tempted by the allure of a quick fix, Dr Lewandowski does not recommend "immunity boosting" supplements, juices and shots .

"We all want something that will make us better, but … there is the potential for harm both for your pocketbook and for your body if we start searching for things that don't exist."

Dr Lewandowski says he doesn't believe all immunity boosters and natural products are bad, but that there just isn't the evidence to prove these products are effective.

Dr Luckraj recommends keeping things simple: "What's really important is to eat a balanced, healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, and to maintain general wellbeing".

Monitoring your symptoms and seeking help

Dr Luckraj says "there's usually no need to see a doctor if you just have common cold symptoms like a runny nose and feeling generally tired".

She says you can also use the Healthdirect symptom checker via their app or website, particularly "if you're concerned about your condition deteriorating or that it may be something other than cold symptoms".

While the Symptom Checker can't give you a diagnosis or replace seeing a doctor, it can help you find out if you need medical help.

The site also lists symptoms for COVID-19 .

Limiting the spread

When it comes to things you can do, both Dr Lewandowski and Dr Luckraj recommend limiting spread of your cold.

You can protect others by staying at home where possible , and taking extra care with hygiene.

This includes putting used tissues in the bin immediately, avoid sharing cutlery and crockery, and keeping surfaces clean to protect other household members.

This is general information only. For detailed personal advice, you should see a qualified medical practitioner who knows your medical history.