Tips On Cold Prevention And Care
When you feel especially fatigued, and there is a tingling sensation starting to scratch at your throat, you know a cold is on the way. The common cold and flu spread around in full force every winter, and, unfortunately, we still have no cure nor sure-fire way to prevent getting them.
However, there are some steps you can take to help lower your risk of catching a cold and to feel better more quickly if you do.
Rest. Not only does getting some extra sleep feel good when you are worn down and when symptoms are causing you pain, but your body needs to conserve energy to fight the infection. The immune system is stronger with adequate and quality sleep. Powering through a cold and continuing to go to work or school will drag out the process plus spread your germs around everywhere you go.
Drink. The classic advice is true: get some sleep and drink plenty of fluids. Being properly hydrated helps with headaches, pain, and to thin congested mucus.
Water, in general, aids biological processes in our bodies, so it's important to get enough of it while the immune system is working over time. A hot herbal or decaffeinated tea and honey is soothing on the throat. It may also help to gargle warm salt water because sodium can reduce swelling and irritation.
Remedy. Visit (or send someone) to your local pharmacy to fetch cold and flu symptom relievers. A daytime and nighttime cold and flu reliever can assist with symptoms like congestion, sore throat, and cough. They often contain a pain reliever and pseudoephedrine to decongest. The latter can cause feelings of nervousness and anxiety, so be careful to take the proper amount listed on the bottle.
A pain reliever will help with headaches and sore muscles, but if you're taking it alongside a cold and flu pill that already has a pain reliever in it, be careful to not exceed the maximum dose.
A compounding pharmacy like MEDS Pharmacy Group can formulate unique medications, like pain relievers, that are customized to suit individual needs. They have a world-class laboratory and work closely with prescribers to create prescription solutions with tailored doses and ingredients meant to reduce side effects. They also present regular events and talks for topics relevant to community health.
Other common remedies include medicated lozenges, anti-histamines, using a saline flush via a pot or a spray, a cold rub for your chest to help loosen mucus, and others your local pharmacist is happy to assist you with. There are also natural remedies to help with cold and flu symptoms available that can be used in conjunction with other treatments or alone.
Prevent. Cold and flu are caused by exposure to viruses. So, frequently washing your hands, especially before eating or drinking, and avoiding touching your mouth too often, can help. Get everyone in your family to do the same.
While this tip didn't make the official list, it's important to remember to drink water! Not only will you feel better, but you could be protecting yourself against serious medial conditions like kidney stones, as there is lots of research to suggest a strong connection between not drinking water and kidney stones.
Keep your body and immune system healthy by eating well and exercising regularly. Get adequate vitamins through the foods you eat, plus other nutrients and antioxidants. Drink plenty of water. Make sure to get a good quality sleep as part of your every day routine and take steps to manage your stress levels through self-care.
