COLD – Facts and Myths

There’s no cure for the common cold.  Find out what’s effective — and what’s

Cold remedies : What works

If you catch a cold, you can expect to be sick for one to two weeks. That doesn’t mean you have to be miserable. Besides getting enough rest, these remedies might help you feel better:

  • Stay hydrated. Water, juice, clear broth or warm lemon water with honey helps loosen congestion andprevents dehydration. Avoid alcohol, coffee and caffeinated sodas, which can make dehydration worse.
  • Rest. Your body needs to heal.
  • Soothe a sore throat. A saltwater gargle — 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt dissolved in an 8-ounce glass of warm water — can temporarily relieve a sore or scratchy throat. You can also try lozenges
  • Combat stuffiness. Over-the- counter saline nasal drops and sprays can help relieve stuffiness and congestion.
  • Relieve pain. You can take just Paracetamol ( Crocin) or Aspirin.
  • Sip warm liquids. A cold remedy used in many are taking in warm liquids, such as soup, tea, or warm apple juice, might be soothing and might ease congestion by increasing mucus flow.
  • Add moisture to the air.  A cool mist vaporizer or humidifier can add moisture to your home, which might help loosen congestion. Don’t use steam.
  • Try over-the- counter (OTC) cold and cough medications. Decongestants, antihistamines and pain relievers might offer some symptom relief. Take medications only as directed.
Cold remedies: What doesn't work

 

A few of the more common ones that don't work include:

  • Antibiotics. These attack bacteria, but they're no help against cold viruses. Avoid asking your doctor for antibiotics for a cold or using old antibiotics you have on hand.
    • Cold remedies: What probably doesn't hurt

      In spite of ongoing studies, the scientific jury is still out on some popular cold
      remedies, such as vitamin C

      Vitamin C. It appears that for the most part taking vitamin C won't help the
      average person prevent colds. However, taking vitamin C before the onset of
      cold symptoms may shorten the duration of symptoms. Vitamin C may provide
      benefit for people at high risk of colds due to frequent exposure

      Take care of yourself

      Although usually minor, colds can make you feel miserable. It's tempting to try
      the latest remedy, but the best thing you can do is take care of yourself. Rest,
      drink fluids and keep the air around you moist. Remember to wash your hands
      frequently.

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