Cold Remedies
Catching a cold during the winter months is almost as common as the common cold. Because of this, it can be helpful to know the best ways that you can take care of yourself or a loved one when a cold spell strikes. Here are some tips that can help you feeling better:
Hydrate: Staying hydrated can help you decongest and keep you from becoming dehydrated. This same concept applies for the adage of sipping warm tea or soups. Avoid things like alcohol, caffeinated drinks and other sugary beverages as they can increase dehydration.
Rest: This goes without saying, but the best remedy for the cold is to simply rest and let your body recover.
Moisturize: Using a humidifier or a cool-mist vaporizer can add moisture to your home which can help with congestion. Make sure to change the water daily and clean the unit frequently for better air quality.
Have some (hard) candy: A sore throat can be a major irritant for anyone with a cold. To help fight it, try using ice, throat sprays, cough drops or even hard candy can help.
Medicate: Numerous over-the-counter medications can help with the wide variety of symptoms a cold can bring, such as nasal congestion, cough, a fever or general aches/pains.
Of course, the best way to fight off a cold is to not catch one at all. While many may claim to have the best ‘home remedy’ to keeping off a cold, there are only a few guaranteed practices you can do to help your chances:
Wash: If there is something you touch on a regular basis, wash it. This includes your hands, places such as your desk, computer, phone and even commonly shared items like remotes and other things.
Cover up: The common cold can spread from person to person with a simple sneeze or a cough. Being sure to cover your mouth or using a tissue when you sneeze can help prevent the spread of the cold virus.
Keep things to yourself: Avoid sharing things such as cups, Chapstick or utensils like forks and spoons with other people.
Be healthy: Doing things like keeping up on your exercise, eating right and getting enough sleep can be the best defense to fighting off a cold.
If you continue to experience cold-like symptoms or your symptoms get worse, please contact your medical professional right away.
