Five Ways to Ease the Common Cold
- Category: Health Education
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If you’ve ever experienced a runny nose, sneezing, coughing or a sore throat – you're not alone. Millions of people catch a cold each year. It never fails that a cold hits us when we least expect it, especially during the holiday season. With over 200 viruses capable of causing colds, most adults experience a cold at least two to three times a year (children experience colds more often), according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
While there is no full-proof cure for the common cold, you can take steps to ease symptoms and speed up recovery.
Rest and recover
Your body uses more energy when it fights off illness. This is why you may feel more tired when dealing with a cold.
Nap, relax and go to bed earlier than normal to allow your body the extra rest it needs to heal.
When resting, elevate your head to 45-degree to aid in drainage.
If possible, take time off of work and school when suffering from a cold. Not only will this allow you to rest, but it will keep you from passing your germs to others.
Drink plenty of liquids
Hydration is critical for managing colds and thinning mucus, making it easier to clear your airways and heal faster.
Fevers can cause dehydration and lead to colds that last longer.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Soothe your sore throat
Use cough drops or throat lozenges to soothe your sore throat. Don’t give them to children 4 years old and younger.
Hot tea with honey and lemon can help soothe sore throats.
Gargle with salt water to clear away mucus.
Moisten your airways
Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air when you sleep.
Inhale steam from the shower or bowl of hot water to aid in drainage.
Use saline nasal spray or rinse to flush out mucus and reduce swelling.
Avoid spreading the cold to others
Wash your hands frequently, with soap, for at least 20 seconds.
Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze.
Avoid work, school, and close contact with others until you are fever free for 24 hours or feeling better.
Know when to see the doctor.
Most colds resolve on their own within 7-10 days, but some symptoms or worsening symptoms may require medical care. If you have a high fever (above 101.3 degrees F) last more than three days, you need to make an appointment with a provider. If you experience severe sinus pressure, facial swelling, shortness of breath or wheezing, you need to seek immediate medical treatment.
If you are looking for a doctor to treat illnesses like cold and flu or need an annual wellness check-up, primary care is the best place to start. To browse our list of primary care physicians, click here or call 337.480.6800 to speak to a patient access representative to schedule an appointment today.
Sources: Harvard Health Publishing, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute of Health
