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Traditional Way to Treat the Common Cold

What we refer to as a cold is really an infection of the upper respiratory system, specifically your nose and throat. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, in the United States, adults have as many as two to four colds a year. There is not good way to prevent a cold and no cure. They last typically for about a week. If you have a cold, some good old-fashioned traditional care will get you back on your feet.

  1. Symptoms

    • There is a difference between a cold, bronchitis and the flu. Rhinovirus causes most colds and is spread through contact. For instance, if you shake hands with a person who has a cold, you are exposed. Bronchitis is an extension of a cold. The infection that started in your throat and nose has now spread to your bronchial tubes. Influenza, a different organism, causes the flu. Some symptoms of the basic cold include sneezing and runny nose, sore throat, hoarseness, headache, and fatigue.

    Basics for Care

    • If you find yourself with a cold, some common sense care will help. Get some rest and allow your body to fight the virus. Drink lots of water to loosen the mucus, or congestion.

    Diet

    • It is helpful when fighting an infection, like a cold, to turn to antioxidants. Antioxidants help boost your immune system. Eat some fruits and vegetables; this will increase the antioxidants in your diet and help your body rid itself of the virus. Warm fluids, such as soup or tea, will sooth your sore throat and help break up congestion.

    Medicine

    • Over the counter medications will make a cold more bearable. A decongestant will open the nasal passages, allowing you to breathe better. Antihistamines dry up mucus in your nose and relieve that runny feeling. Cough suppressants calm down the cough and help you sleep. Pain relievers reduce any fever as well as relieve the achy feeling that comes with a cold.

    Homeopathic Remedies

    • Probiotics or good bacteria, may help your body fight infection. They are available in yogurt, treated bottled water, or herbal teas. Be careful with supplements like vitamin C and zinc. Although some believe they will help cure a cold, there is no scientific evidence to support this. An overabundance can actually be harmful to your body. It can't hurt to take an added supplement, if you are not getting them through diet, but do not double up, hoping to cure your cold.

    Prevention

    • With any illness, prevention is the best treatment of all. Some steps you can take to avoid catching or spreading a cold include good hand washing and eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Stress affects hormones produced to fight infection. Do some things to help yourself relax, such as yoga.

      If your symptoms are not gone or continue to get worse after a week, see your doctor. There is no perfect treatment for a cold. The best thing you can do is stay healthy with exercise and diet.

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