Green tea is particularly helpful when you have a cold. It is full of antioxidants that help your body ward off infections. The more fluids, the better. Becoming dehydrated would only worsen your cold.
You should typically try to get seven or eight hours of sleep per night. When you’re not feeling well, aim for an extra hour or two. The rest will help your body to heal.
Other foods have may may be helpful in easing your cold symptoms. For example, yogurt contains “good” bacteria that helps your body fight infections. [5] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Garlic contains many immune-boosting properties. Add some to your chicken soup to get extra benefits. Eat ginger. It can help ease upset stomachs. This would be another great ingredient to add to your chicken soup.
Elderberry supplements can help treat your cold symptoms. You can get this substance in either liquid or pill form. It can act as a decongestant. Slippery elm may reduce the discomfort caused by a sore throat. Many herbalists and physicians caution against taking this herb if you are pregnant.
Don’t try to do an intense cardio workout if you are having trouble breathing due to a stuffy nose. Take it easy on yourself and go for a light to moderate workout. Exercise is a natural mood booster, so you will likely feel less miserable after moving around a bit. Do not exercise if you have a fever, have a cough, or an upset stomach, or if you feel fatigued or achey. [7] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
If you don’t have time for a shower, you can still utilize steam. Run hot water in the bathroom sink and bend over the bowl with a towel over your head. Breathe deeply to get the full benefits of the steam. Try adding herbs to your steam treatment. Try adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to your bath. Some reports indicate that eucalyptus can help reduce coughing. Peppermint is also useful. Menthol, which can ease congestion, is the main active ingredient. You can add peppermint oil to your bath to get greater benefits from the steam.
Be very clear when describing your symptoms to the pharmacist. Make sure to let him know if you’re feeling very drowsy, or if you are having trouble sleeping. You should also tell him if you have any allergies or sensitivities.
If your cold is causing you to stay awake at night coughing, look for an over the counter medication that contains dextromethorphan. This substance in one of the most effective in reducing nasal congestion.
Aspirin and ibuprofen are effective at helping you get over your cold. Just remember to carefully follow the dosage guidelines on the bottle. Use caution when giving a child aspirin, as it has been linked to Reye’s syndrome. Never give aspirin to a child under the age of two. Children who have recently recovered from the chicken pox or the flu should never be given aspirin. Consult your doctor before giving any child aspirin. [10] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
If your symptoms are persistent or especially severe, then you should call your doctor. You’ll want medical advice particularly if you are having significant trouble breathing.
Eating a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables can help build a strong immune system. [13] X Expert Source David Nazarian, MDDiplomate, American Board of Internal Medicine Expert Interview. 26 March 2020. This will help you fight off germs. Try meditation. Research shows that people who meditate daily report less illnesses per year. This is likely because meditation reduces stress, which can put undue pressure on your immune system. Exercise frequently. [14] X Expert Source David Nazarian, MDDiplomate, American Board of Internal Medicine Expert Interview. 26 March 2020. People who log exercise five days a week suffer from fewer respiratory illnesses, such as colds.
Using soap and warm water, scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Make sure that you dry them on a clean towel.
You can use the same process at home. Try wiping down commonly touched surfaces such as the faucets on your bathroom sink.
