How to get rid of a cold: Five ways to get rid of a cold FAST
HOW TO get rid of a cold: If you haven’t been struck with a cold yet this winter, you might still fall victim before we reach the spring as cold and flu viruses are still rife. Follow these five steps to get rid of a cold fast.
NHS advises how to treat a common cold
Most people will catch a cold during the winter months, as the virus spreads easily from person to person. A cold can usually be treated without the need to see a GP, and should disappear after about a week or two. But symptoms can be unpleasant and leave you feeling run down, which can be irritating and get in the way of day-to-day activities. Harley Street doctor Arun Thiyagarajan shares five tips to help you get rid of a cold:
If your symptoms however do not improve over that time frame, it is important that you consult your doctor
Stay hydrated
Honey and lemon, water and clear fluids are the recommended beverages during a cold, as they help to loosen nasal congestion.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which will worsen dehydration and possibly worsen symptoms.
Use home remedies
Gargling salt water can provide temporary relief to an itchy and scratchy sore throat.
Warm fluids like chicken soup can also help soothe congestion by easing mucus flow.
Get some rest
It is important to give the body time to rest in order to heal appropriately, according to Dr Thiyagarajan.
“It’s likely the more you rest, the quicker you will recover.”
Combat congestion
Congestion and a feeling of stuffiness can be improved by taking over-the-counter remedies.
There are many medicines out there, and even regular intake of paracetamol and ibuprofen can dramatically reduce symptoms.
Try steam inhalation
Dr Thiyagarajan recommends steam inhalation as a good technique to provide imminent relief from cold symptoms, but warns to make sure boiling water doesn’t come into contact with skin.
“The most important thing to remember is that it will pass and if you stick to those techniques you will feel better very quickly,” said Dr Thiyagarajan.
“If your symptoms however do not improve over that time frame, it is important that you consult your doctor.”