In some people, colds always seem to start with a sore throat and end with sniffles and sneezes. In others, colds launch with a stuffy nose and exit with a lingering cough. The good news: By recognizing your "cold profile," you can tailor remedies to head off the usual complications. Here's how:

You have: A sinus infection

You have it because: Previous infections may have damaged the sinus lining, making it more vulnerable. Blowing your nose too hard can send germs deeper into your sinuses.
You need to: Go easy when you blow. Use an over-the-counter (OTC) decongestant or antihistamine to keep your nose clear, or eat spicy foods. And hum five seconds a day; it increases ventilation of sinuses.

You have: Plugged-up ears

You have it because: When sinuses inflame, your ears may not drain properly and can get infected. Blowing your nose too hard can drive the infection deeper, adding to the risk.
You need to: Use an OTC decongestant to keep sinuses open and blow your nose gently, if at all.

You have: Postnasal drip

You have it because: Thick mucous draining from sinuses flows down the back of your throat, which can make it feel as if it's hard to swallow.
You need to: Drink plenty of liquids to help thin the mucous and elevate the head of your bed 2 inches (or use more pillows) to help sinuses drain.

You have: A sore throat

You have it because: Many colds start with a sore throat, the result of immune cells battling the invading virus. If you've had strep throat in the past, you may be more susceptible to sore throats or more sensitive to
the pain.
You need to: Drink tea with lemon and honey, or suck on lozenges. Sore throats usually go away as soon as mucous coats the throat. If the pain is intense and you have a fever of 102 degrees or more, see your doctor. You could have strep throat.

You have: Bronchitis (congestion in the chest)

You have it because: Frequent bouts of bronchitis may have injured tissues in your lungs, making them more susceptible to bacterial infection after a cold.
You need to: Humidify and drink lots of tea. If chest congestion persists more than a week, see your doctor. If you're prescribed antibiotics, be sure to eat a cup of yogurt daily to replenish the good bacteria the drugs kill.