Common cold, we curse you.
You sneak up on us ever so quietly… our noses starts to run, our heads begins to feel heavy, we blame it on the lack of sleep we’ve had the last few nights until BAM, we realise it’s the common cold and it’s too late to “nip it in the bud” as our mothers would say.
The average Irish adult gets two to five colds a year. Children suffer the worst, with seven to 10 sniffly-nose sessions a year.
Conventional medicines may provide relief from a lot of the symptoms but they don’t work against the virus itself.
News today is that scientists in the near future may be able to cure the cold and other viruses but for now, it is our immune system that is left with the burden.
The good news is you can help your body blast off the infection with a few of the following tips.
Blow your nose often, and the right way.
It is essential to blast out the infection in any way possible, and one of the easiest ways is through your nose. It may be a bit embarrassing to be trumpeting into a tissue for the day but it is far better than sniffling mucus into the back of your head. Cover one nostril and blow gently.
Conserve Your Energy
Stay rested and save your energy for your immune system to fight the infection, it will need it.
Gargle It
Gargling can moisten a sore throat and bring temporary relief. Try a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle four times daily. A popular folk remedy is a spoon of honey and some apple cider vinegar in hot water, you will feel the relief immediately.
Drink It Hot
Hot liquids relieve nasal congestion, help prevent dehydration and soothe your nose and throat. Boil the kettle up and relax with a cup of tea. We can hear you now, “aaaahhh.”
Take A Steamy Shower
We knew you’d love this tip. A steamy shower can moisturise your nasal passages and relax you. It is a treat for the tight or sore muscles too.
Aaahhhh, any excuse!
Some Like It Hot, Some Like It Cold
Either temperature can help you feel more comfortable. Take a damp washcloth and either soak it in warm or cold water. Press against your congested sinuses for instant relief.
Sleep With An Extra Pillow
Ah-ha! A great excuse to nab an extra pillow for yourself! Sleeping with your head slightly elevated will help drain the nasal passages. Doesn’t sound very nice but it’s necessary!
Inhale Steam
One of the best ways to reduce inflammation of the nasal passage and lining of the sinuses is to keep your nasal passages clear. Steaming is a great way of achieving this. Put a towel over your head and inhale steam from a boiling bowl of water, ideally use drops of plant oil such as eucalyptus or olbas oil for extra relief.
Great Excuse For A Takeaway
A cold is a great excuse for a hot curry. Spicy food and drinks promote salivation and mucus secretions that can soothe your cough or sore throat. It means you don’t have to be cooking tonight either, we all deserve a treat.
Splash out and treat yourself.
Some Old-School Advice
Wrap up warm. A lot can be said for Granny’s advice. If your temperature falls, your immune system is not as efficient.
And Finally, The Cure For Everything…
Water. Your body will become dehydrated when it’s fighting an infection. Drink plenty of fluids, provided it’s not alcohol of course. Drink regularly.
