Remedies for Chest Colds

Symptoms of a chest cold include a dry cough, wheezing and sore throat. While chest colds are generally mild and rarely result in severe complications, they're uncomfortable and symptoms can linger for several days or weeks. However, there are ways to remedy a chest cold and recovery sooner, allowing you to resume your normal activities and you reduce your risk of developing a severe upper respiratory infection.

Cold Medications

• Chest colds respond well to cold medications. Several drugs are available over-the-counter. But to treat a chest cold, it's best to choose medications that include ingredients such as an cough suppressant to ease a severe cough, and a expectorant to help you expel mucus from the chest. Cold medications also are effective remedies for a runny nose, sore throat and body aches. Read the directions carefully and take OTC medications as directed.

Techniques to Loosen Mucus

• Chest congestion is a typical symptom of chest colds. When thick mucus develops in the chest, wheezing, coughing and throat irritation can develop. To thin mucus and get rid of congestion, increase your fluid intake. Ideal drinks include water and orange juice, which can serve as a natural expectorant. Another effective remedy is eating chicken soup. The heat plays a role in loosening thick chest mucus. Also, positioning a heat humidifier in your bedroom or sitting in a steamy bathroom can get rid of congestion and ease a chest cold.

Improve Immune System

• Boosting a low immune system is another way to relieve a chest cold quickly. You can improve your immune system and help fight the infection by taking vitamin C supplements or drinking orange juice. Getting proper rest when dealing with a chest cold is also an effective remedy. Although chest colds rarely require bed rest, taking frequent breaks throughout the day, reducing physical exertion and sleeping the recommended eight hours a day can strengthen your immune system.