The common cold or rhinopharyngitis is the most frequent minor ailment of winter. Even though this illness is mild, it is difficult to avoid: adults suffer from an average of two to five colds each year, and the virus spreads even more easily among children. Here are some tips and tricks to treat the cold and prevent contagion.
The Cold manifests with the following symptoms:
• runny nose, sneezing, or feeling of nasal congestion
• headaches with or without fever.
Contrary to a fairly widespread belief, cold or temperature changes are not the cause of winter epidemics, as this illness is simply caused by a virus.
Nearly two hundred different viruses, all of which are extremely contagious, can cause a cold.
Children are most exposed to complications, such as a bacterial infection or an ear infection for the younger ones.
The best way to prevent a cold is to protect yourself from viruses through hygiene measures.
The most important is to wash your hands regularly and teach children this essential habit.
When someone around you is sick, the highest risk of contagion is about two days after the person has been infected. It is important to avoid using the sick person's glass or spoon.
If you have a cold, cover your mouth when you sneeze to avoid spreading the virus to others. Use paper tissues and dispose of them immediately to avoid recontaminating yourself.
To treat a cold, one can only treat the symptoms and avoid superinfection.
The treatment consists of:
• reducing fever
• clearing nasal congestion or combating runny nose
• addressing inflammation
• disinfecting the respiratory tract.
The most commonly used medications are therefore:
• decongestants to stop nasal discharge and/or the sensation of a blocked nose
• antipyretics (medications against fever like paracetamol)
• Medications for Cough: a mucus thinner for a productive cough or a cough suppressant for a dry cough.
Note: antibiotics, which only act against bacteria, are not effective against the common cold.
Some herbal remedies can help you treat your cold and relieve your symptoms.
Thyme is a natural antiseptic very effective against respiratory infections. It is usually used in an infusion with a slice of lemon and a spoonful of honey (which has soothing properties).
Another useful substance is Vitamin C, which contributes to the proper functioning of our immune system. In case of rhinopharyngitis, this vitamin (the best sources of which are kiwis, bell peppers, blackcurrant, parsley, and citrus fruits) can alleviate symptoms and reduce the duration of the illness.
Regarding nasal congestion, a natural method is to use seawater sprays combined with sulfur.
To purify the atmosphere of the house, you can diffuse different essential oils, notably eucalyptus and pine, recommended for respiratory issues.
In addition to conventional symptomatic treatments, certain natural approaches can offer effective relief:
- **Thyme, honey, and lemon infusions**: Thyme has antiseptic properties beneficial for respiratory infections. Combined with honey, known for its soothing virtues, and lemon, rich in vitamin C, this infusion helps soothe the throat and strengthen the immune system.
- **Inhalations of eucalyptus essential oils**: Eucalyptus is renowned for its decongestant properties. Inhalations, performed morning and evening, can help clear the airways and reduce the feeling of a stuffy nose.
- **Consumption of garlic**: Garlic is recognized for its antibacterial and antiviral properties. Incorporated into the diet, it can help strengthen the body's natural defenses.
Preventing colds also involves strengthening the immune system, especially during the cold season:
- **Balanced diet**: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly those containing vitamin C (such as citrus fruits, kiwis, and peppers), helps boost immune defenses.
- **Regular physical activity**: Moderate exercise contributes to strengthening the immune system and reducing the risk of infections.
- **Quality sleep**: Sufficient rest is essential to maintain optimal immunity and allow the body to defend itself effectively against infections.
By adopting these natural approaches and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, it is possible to reduce the impact of colds and go through the winter season in better health.
Author Audrey on 01 August 2022
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