Is it that time of the year when you get a stuffy nose and sore throat? Do not worry, this article is here to your rescue. Everyone must suffer from a cold at least once a year. However, you can easily cure a cold from medications and some trusted remedies. The common symptoms of cold include fever, headache, fatigue, lethargy, running nose, coughing and a sore throat. If not treated timely, a cold can last for longer than a week.
Many people do not consider home remedies effective, but the truth is that these are helpful to reduce symptoms.
What causes Cold?
Common cold is a result of a viral infection. Many people have the misconception that cold is due to winter. This is not true. Cold can happen at any time of the year. However, people are most likely to catch cold in the winter. The science behind this is that, in winters, you get less sunlight and vitamin D, so your immunity becomes weak. Whatever the season is, cold is annoying and affects your daily life.
The symptoms of cold are usually mild and go away in a few days. However, if you smoke or have asthma, sinus issues or other complications, the symptoms may last longer.
Tips to Treat Cold Symptoms
Are you coming down with the flu? Here are some remedies that will reduce the symptoms and promote healing.
Rest Well
Sickness is your body's way of alarming you to take a step back. When you are ill, you need to recharge your body. Take days off from work or anything, and rest well. The adequate rest will improve your immunity. Sleep well and take naps when needed. You may also take a light walk as an exercise if the symptoms are light. If you ignore your illness and keep on working, the symptoms will become adverse. So, rest as much as you can.
Stick To Hot Drinks
It is mandatory to stay hydrated to fight illness. One of the oldest traditions to treat cold is consuming hot beverages. The fact is that sipping on hot drinks has soothing effects on your nose and throat. They reduce pain and coughing. Also, when you are sick, you should avoid spicy solid foods and cold drinks. Consume lots of hot stuff like broth, soup, herbal tea, ginger tea, and honey. The caffeinated hot drinks dehydrate your body and are not recommended. Proper hydration will restore your body’s energy and immunity.
Gargle
If you have a sore throat, here is a remedy that can help you. Gargle with warm salt water. Check the water temperature, you do not want to burn your throat. Gargling will reduce the swelling in the throat and coughing. Remember, do not swallow the water, just gargle it for at least five seconds.
Take Steam
This is also one of the oldest remedies. Inhaling steam is a great way to relieve congestion. You can use a humidifier, or just heat some water and inhale the steam, covering yourself with the towel. Taking steam will loosen up the nose buildup and reduce the nose symptoms.
Meet Your Body’s Nutritional Needs
The main cause of cold is weak immunity. So, to get rid of it, you need to build a strong body immunity. Adequate diet is the best way to strengthen your body. Try to consume veggies and fruits to fulfill your vitamin needs. Vitamin C is known to enhance the body's defense mechanism. You can consume healthy food or take supplements to meet your body’s needs.
Get a Medicine
There are several medicines available to reduce the symptoms of cold. Some are sorts of herbal aids and lozenges that soothe your throat. Also, there are OTC, cough syrups and antibiotics. You should not self-medicate, consult a doctor to get medicine.
Things To Avoid
You need to take preventative measures to avoid catching cold. Wear a mask, wash your hands frequently and do not share anything with an infected person.
If you have a cold, you need to avoid alcohol, cold drinks, salty, fried, and spicy food, candies, and other such stuff. Carbonated drinks are your worst enemies. Consuming this stuff will only aggravate the situation and result in contracted illness.
Final Words
To conclude, you can relieve your cold symptoms with some easy remedies. Eat healthy, avoid junk food, consume hot drinks, use a humidifier and rest well. If the symptoms get worse, consult a doctor.
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