How to Fight a Cold

Any query of medications for cold is most often met by a reply that goes like “with medications the cold will last seven days and without medications it takes about a week”. This is because there is no known cure for common cold. Often it is said that humans cannot call themselves thoroughly developed as long as the cure for common cold eludes them. 

Cold is one of the most common ailments that affect mankind and the only way to respond to it, as of now, is to fight it or to work for relief. Common cold, though it doesn’t pose a serious risk to the health, can be quite irritating. Getting infected with just one symptom of cold is enough to hamper any type of work. 

So, for proper functioning, it is important that we know how to get relief from cold. For this, this article will be of immense help. If you follow all the remedies given below, then you can tide over the battle with cold, without much discomfort. Keep on reading to know how you can fight a cold.

Remedies For Cold

Supplements

There are various supplements that can provide relief against cold. The best is of course zinc tablets and lozenges. Vitamin C supplements are also very effective in fighting the cold virus. One should take vitamin C supplements every 3 to 4 hours. Marshmallow and slippery elm soothes the sore throat. These also provide relief against the cold.

Chicken Soup

Chicken soup has traditionally been the most widely used home remedy for common types of ailments like fever and cold. A bowl of homemade chicken soup helps open the nasal passages and provides the much-needed relief. It is better if you do not go for commercial chicken soup. Have at least three bowls of chicken soup throughout the day.

Liquids

Drink plenty of liquids like water and juices throughout the day. Needless to say that you shouldn’t drink cold liquids as it will aggravate your condition further. Drink at least 8 to 12 glasses of boiled water and fresh fruit juices during the day. The liquids will act as the natural body cleanser and also provide the body with essential vitamins and minerals. It is also important that you stay away from all alcoholic and caffeine-related beverages.

Rest And Sleep

During cold, the virus weakens down the body and the immune system. Stay away from any rigorous activity so that the body doesn’t have to use extra strength to fight the virus. It is always better if you can manage to sleep nine to twelve hours a day. Good sleep will rejuvenate the body and you will feel less weak.

Nasal Flush

Regularly flush the nasal passages with water using a netti pot. This will clear the sinuses and help in proper elimination of mucus. Another effective method is to gargle with salt water. Both gargling and nasal flush should be done regularly to speeden up the healing process and also for cold relief.

Humidifier

If the season is dry and cold, then it is very helpful if you can install a humidifier in your room. This will help in restricting the natural environment from aggravating the cold. You should also keep the house free of dust and other allergens.