Are you feeling like a cold is starting? Trying to find ways to ease cold and get better quickly? Look no further!
In this blog post, we’ll go over how to shorten your cold and return to feeling like yourself in no time. We’ll cover ways to ease a cold, to help you feel better, and tips to prevent future colds.
Learn how to Ease A Cold and return to your routine!
Table of Contents
Drink lots of fluids.
Drinking plenty of fluids when you have a cold is one of the best ways to ease your symptoms and get better quickly. Staying hydrated helps your body fight off infections, clear up congestion, and replenish lost fluids due to fever or sweating.
Water is the best for hydration, but other fluids such as hot tea, broth, or fruit juice can also be helpful. Avoid sugary drinks, which can contribute to dehydration and irritate your throat. If you have difficulty drinking enough fluids, consider adding fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet to help increase your liquid intake.
Get rest
When you feel like a cold is starting, one of the best things you can do for yourself is to get plenty of rest. This gives your body a chance to focus on fighting off the virus rather than expending it on other activities.
Make sure to sleep at least seven to eight hours a night, and if you can, take naps during the day to give your body an extra boost. If you have a fever, try to stay in bed until it goes down.
Remember that resting isn’t just about being inactive. It’s about giving your body a chance to fight off the cold so you can recover quickly.
Gargle with salt water
Gargling with salt water is a very effective way to help shorten your cold and get better quickly. Salt helps to reduce swelling, irritation, and mucus buildup in the throat and reduces bacteria and viruses.
To make a saltwater gargle, mix one teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water and stir until it dissolves. Then, sip the mixture, tilt your head back, and gargle for up to 30 seconds. Spit out the solution, then repeat it several times throughout the day. Make sure to rinse your mouth with plain water afterward.
Take over-the-counter medication
Over-the-counter (OTC) medication can be used to treat the symptoms of a cold. Decongestants can also help reduce congestion and mucus production in the nose and sinuses.
Be sure to read the instructions on the package carefully and follow the recommended dosages. If you have concerns or questions about taking OTC medications, consult your healthcare provider.
Additionally, some OTC medications may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions or other drugs, so it is essential to talk to your doctor before taking anything.
Drink warm liquids
Drinking warm liquids can help soothe sore throats and help to keep the nasal passages open. Hot tea, hot water, or warm broths are all great options. Make sure to sweeten drinks with honey instead of sugar, as love has been shown to be effective in reducing cold symptoms.
Drinking warm liquids throughout the day will also help to replace lost fluids and stay hydrated. Additionally, some people find that drinking warm beverages can help clear up congestion.
Use a humidifier
A humidifier can help to loosen congestion and keep your throat and nasal passages. This can help reduce the severity of your cold symptoms, making it easier to breathe and get more rest. To use a humidifier, place it in the room you are sleeping in or spending time in.
The humidity level should be set between 40% and 60%. Make sure to clean your humidifier regularly to prevent mold and bacteria growth. It is also important to use distilled water in your humidifier, as regular tap water may contain impurities that could be released into the air.
Eat a balanced diet
Eating a balanced diet is integral to help shorten your cold. Focus on getting lots of vitamins and minerals from fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as lean proteins and whole grains.
Eating foods high in Vitamin C, such as oranges and bell peppers, can help strengthen your immune system and fight colds. Additionally, eating foods with zinc, such as nuts, beans, and seafood, can also help reduce cold symptoms.
Avoiding foods high in sugar or saturated fats is essential when trying to shorten the duration of a cold, as these foods can weaken your immune system. Avoid processed and convenience foods, which are often high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
Additionally, make sure to stay hydrated. Drinking lots of water helps your body flush out the germs causing your cold. You can also drink herbal teas, warm lemon water with honey, and soups for additional fluids.
Eating a balanced diet can help give your body the energy and nutrients it needs to fight off the cold and help you get better faster.
Wash your hands
Good hand hygiene is an essential part of fighting off a cold. Frequently washing your hands can help prevent the spread of germs and reduce your chances of getting sick. It is necessary to wash your hands before eating, going to the bathroom, or coming into contact with someone suffering.
The best way to wash your hands is to use warm water and soap. Rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds while lathering the soap. Make sure to scrub the back of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. Then rinse off the soap with warm water and dry off your hands with a clean towel. If you don’t have access to soap and water, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
By washing your hands regularly, you can help reduce your risk of getting a cold and ensure you stay healthy.
Conclusion
It is common to experience a cold during the winter months, and while there is no cure, you can take steps to shorten your cold and get better quickly. Make sure to drink lots of fluids, get plenty of rest, gargle with salt water, drink warm liquids, take over-the-counter medication, use a humidifier, eat a balanced diet, and wash your hands frequently. With these steps, you can help reduce the severity and duration of your cold.
