Home Remedies for Cold

Max Lab

Nov 10, 2022

A viral infection of the nose and throat causes the common cold. This can lead to fever, cough, runny nose and body aches. With over 200 different types of viruses that can cause the cold, it can be difficult to find a specific treatment for the issue. In this article, we will be discussing some simple home remedies for cold or a runny nose you can use to help you get through your cold as best as possible.

What Is the Common Cold?

The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory system, including the nose, throat, sinuses, and larynx. It is one of the most common illnesses in humans, and is responsible for millions of doctor visits and days missed from work or school each year. Symptoms of the common cold typically include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, and sore throat. Most people recover from a cold within a week or two, but some may experience more severe symptoms that can last for several weeks. There are many different viruses that can cause a cold, so it is often difficult to prevent. However, there are some simple home remedies that can help relieve symptoms and speed up recovery.

Causes of Cold

There are many different viruses that can cause a cold, which is why it’s so common. Colds are also highly contagious, making them easy to spread. The following are some of the most common causes of colds:

• The common cold virus: This virus is responsible for the majority of colds. It’s a highly contagious virus that’s easily spread through coughing and sneezing.
• Flu: The flu is another virus that can cause a cold. Flu symptoms are usually more severe than those of a cold, but both viruses share some common symptoms, such as a runny nose, congestion, and coughing.
• Allergies: Allergies can sometimes cause symptoms that mimic those of a cold, such as a runny nose and sneezing. However, allergies typically don’t cause fever or body aches.

Symptoms of Cold

The symptoms of a cold can vary from person to person, but generally include a runny nose, congestion, sneezing, and a cough. Some people may also experience a sore throat, headache, or fever. Cold symptoms usually start within a few days of being exposed to the virus and can last for up to two weeks.

Home Remedies for a Cold

There are a number of different home remedies for colds that can help you feel better and speed up the healing process. The following are some of the best natural home remedies for a cold:

• Drink plenty of fluids

Drinking plenty of fluids is important when you have a cold. Fluids will help to thin out mucus, making it easier to expel from your body. They will also keep you hydrated, which is important when you’re sick. Try to drink at least eight glasses of water or other fluids each day when you have a cold. This is one of the most recommended home remedies for a common cold.

• Get rest

Getting plenty of rest is important when you’re sick. Your body needs time to heal, and resting will give it the energy it needs to do so. It is important to try to get as much sleep as possible when you’re feeling ill.

• Drink warm liquids

Warm liquids can help to soothe a sore throat and loosen mucus. They could aid in keeping you hydrated as well. Good choices include herbal tea, chicken soup, and warm water with honey and lemon. Caffeine and alcohol should be avoided as they can dehydrate you. Eating spicy foods to help open up the nasal passages is another at-home remedy to cure runny nose.

• Gargle with salt water

Gargling with salt water is another cold treatment at home that can help to relieve a sore throat and reduce inflammation. Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds. Spit the solution out after gargling. To ease the tickle in your throat, you can also try using an astringent gargle, like tea with tannins, to help tighten the membranes in your throat. can also make a thicker gargle, using honey or a combination of honey and apple cider vinegar. Another effective at-home cold treatment is to steep one tablespoon of raspberry leaves or a bit of lemon juice in two cups of hot water and adding a teaspoon of honey to it. Allow this mixture to cool to room temperature before using it as a gargle.

• Blow your nose often

It’s essential to blow your nose regularly when you have a cold, rather than sniffling the mucus back into your head. However, blowing too hard can push germ-filled phlegm into your ear passages, which may lead to an earache. The best method is to press a finger over one nostril and gently blow to clear the other. This keeps pressure controlled and reduces the chances of discomfort.

• Adjust your sleeping position

Adjusting your sleeping position and how you incline your head as you sleep is a popular at-home treatment for a runny nose. When lying flat, mucus tends to settle, which can lead to congestion and even a cough. As you head to bed, try elevating your head with pillows, so gravity can work in your favour. Sleeping at a slight incline encourages the fluid in your sinuses to keep flowing, which helps prevent congestion and other uncomfortable cold symptoms.

• Use a humidifier

Using a clean humidifier is one of the effective home remedies for cold and sneezing that can ease breathing issues. When the air is too dry, mucus may become thicker, making it harder to flow, and your sinuses may struggle to drain properly. By adding humidity to the air, a humidifier or vaporiser keeps the nasal passages moist, allowing mucus to clear more efficiently and helping you feel better faster. Steam inhalation is one of the effective home remedies for cold and sneezing that can ease breathing issues.

Prevention Tips for a Cold

There are a few simple things you can do to help prevent catching a cold:

• Wash your hands regularly and often, especially before eating or after being in public places.
• Avoid touching your face, especially your nose and mouth, with unwashed hands.
• Stay warm and dry; cold weather can weaken your immune system. Dress in layers and don’t forget to wear a hat and scarf when going outside in the winter.
• Drink plenty of fluids, like water, soup, and herbal tea, to stay hydrated and help thin mucus. Avoid sugary beverages because they may worsen your symptoms.
• An effective at-home runny nose treatment is inhaling steam to relieve congestion and soothe the nasal passages.
• Many people rely on other home remedies for a runny nose, such as drinking herbal teas, to ease discomfort.

When to See a Doctor about a Cold

If your cold symptoms last longer than a week, or if you have a fever, see your doctor.

Max Lab offers an exhaustive list of tests for a comprehensive diagnosis of your health. Take a look at Max Fever Panel Test for detecting Fever and Cold Virus in the body.

For Adults

Most of the time, you don’t need medical attention for a common cold. Be sure to reach out to your healthcare providers if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Symptoms that are worsening or not improving.
• A fever above 101.3°F (38.5°C) that persists for more than three days.
• Fever that returns after a brief period without fever.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Wheezing.
• Severe sore throat, headache, or sinus pain.

For Children

Most children with a common cold don’t require a visit to a healthcare provider. However, you should seek medical attention immediately if your child exhibits any of these symptoms:

• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) in infants up to 12 weeks old.
• Fever that increases or lasts more than two days in a child of any age.
• More intense symptoms, such as headache, sore throat, or a persistent cough.
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing.
• Ear pain.
• Unusual fussiness or drowsiness.
• Lack of interest in eating.

Conclusion

There are a variety of home remedies for colds that can help you get over your illness quickly and safely. From drinking lots of fluids to taking supplements like vitamin C, there are many options available to you. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before trying any new remedy, especially if you have underlying health conditions. With a little trial and error, you're sure to find a home remedy for cold that works well for you.

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