In most cases, it is possible to treat the common cold at home. This condition can affect anyone and usually doesn’t cause major complications. Even so, its symptoms are annoying and can be a reason for absenteeism at work or school.
Symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing and coughing generate a general malaise that prevents the performance of daily activities. Fortunately, with some self-care measures, it usually gets better in a short time. Check out some tips below.
What is the common cold?
The common cold is a viral infection that affects the respiratory tract. It can be caused by different types of viruses. In fact, it is estimated that there are about 200 types of related viruses, such as rhinovirusadenoviruses or others.
Throughout history, attempts have been made to identify factors contributing to the development of this pathology. For example, it has been seen that it is more common in childhoodin stressful situations or in places where a dry and cold environment prevails.
Generally, symptoms appear two to three days after exposure to the virus. They include the following:
- Nasal congestion.
- sneezing.
- General discomfort.
- Low fever (only in some cases).
- Cough and sore throat.
- Heachache.
The mucus becomes thicker as the disease progresses. However, the symptoms get better on their own within a few days. Even so, it is convenient to put some of them into practice suggestions to deal with it and reduce the risk of complications.
Tips for taking care of the common cold at home
If there are no signs of complications from an episode of the common cold, Just put into practice some simple tips to cope with the symptoms. This, added to a good rest, will quickly cause a feeling of improvement.
Consume water and healthy fluids
Maintaining good hydration is one of the key measures to relieve congestion. When we drink lots of fluids, mucus thins and is easier to get rid of by sneezing or coughing.
It is recommended to drink both water and hot infusions. Alike, soups and broths often create a comforting sensation. Ideally, avoid other substances that promote dehydration, such as alcoholic or caffeinated beverages.
prepare a saline solution
Applying a saline solution can help us improve discomfort such as nasal congestion and throat irritation. Just dilute a quarter teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Then, we use the liquid to make a nasal wash or gargle.
You can also buy saline sprays and nose drops at the pharmacy. They are applied in case of blockage and excessive production of mucus. In children, the ideal is apply several drops of the product into one nostril. Then, it is carefully aspirated with a rubber bulb.
Take care of the rest environment
Rest is one of the most important measures when it comes to taking care of yourself in the face of a cold. However, we must make sure that it is in an environment free of irritants, such as cigarette smoke, dust, or strong-smelling chemicals. Exposure to these can make symptoms worse.
We can too install a humidifier in the room so that the environment is humid and warm. In this way the irritation of the respiratory tract decreases and the feeling of relief increases.
What else can we do to take care of a cold?
In addition to putting the above into practice, it is worth remembering the importance of reducing the risk of contagion. So things, we owe each other cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing to prevent particles of our secretions from infecting others. Regular hand washing and avoiding sharing items for personal use is another useful measure for this.
If symptoms such as headache or general malaise are present, the use of analgesic drugs, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, is recommended. There are also mucolytic and antitussive drugs that help reduce the thickness of mucus and cough. In any case, to avoid self-medication, it is better to consult a doctor and follow his advice.
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