Wheezer, a few days rest, aspirin and plenty of fluids will see off most colds and their remains. Vitamin C probably won't speed up your recovery, but I always find it perks me up a bit during a cold.
Jane - swollen hands are very common, and I think are related to circulation rather than weight. Wriggling your fingers every so often helps, as (apparently) does holding them above your head (but you do look a bit silly). If you need help and encouragement losing weight, there's a daily thread on the Heath & Injury forum (used to be called "Fat Club" but it now changes daily - today's is "getting +ve and slender club) where people post targets/achievements/exercise and also some general support stuff. Give it a go - you'll be made welcome.
