8 Ways You Could Be Making Your Cold Worse

Whether it’s the common cold or the flu that ails you, you have to take proper care of yourself.

By Beth W. OrensteinMedically Reviewed by Lindsey Marcellin, MD, MPH

Reviewed: January 30, 2017

Medically Reviewed

Don’t Make These Mistakes

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Here we go again: You woke up this morning, and that cold you felt coming on is now in full bloom. Your head hurts. Your throat feels sore, and you have a cough. With more than 200 different types of viruses responsible for the common cold, you’re likely to get sick a few times a year or more, according to the National Institutes of Health. As an adult, you’re likely to have two or three colds a year, and kids catch eight or more colds a year on average. If you treat it properly, your cold is likely to last a week or two. But if you don’t, it could lag on longer. Here are some common mistakes that prolong cold and flu misery.

Pretending You Aren’t Sick

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It’s easy to want to ignore a cold — after all, you have more important things to do than sit home and treat it. “The most common mistake people make is to not slow down and take care of themselves when they have a cold,” says Neelam Taneja-Uppal, MD, an infectious disease specialist in New York City. If you run yourself ragged when you’re not feeling well, even if you just have a common cold, you’ll make it worse and it will take longer for you to recover.

Spreading Your Germs Around

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It usually takes two to three days from the time you’re exposed to the cold virus before you actually start to feel sick, but it could take as long as a week. You may feel fine, but you could also have a cold brewing. That’s why it’s so important to make a conscious effort to contain your germs once you feel sick. To keep a contagious cold from spreading, always cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze, and wash your hands often. Otherwise, your cold can spread around the house or office and boomerang back to you, leaving you feeling like you can’t recover.

Taking Antibiotics for a Common Cold

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If you have a bacterial infection, you likely need antibiotics to treat it. Viruses, on the other hand, don’t respond to antibiotics — and if you take them when you don’t need them, you can build up a resistance. That means that the next time you have an infection and need an antibiotic, it might not work as well as it should. Bottom line: If it’s the common cold, don’t try to zap it with antibiotics. Just stick with over-the-counter cold treatment.

Neglecting to Stay Well Hydrated

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When you have a cold, you may not feel like eating or drinking. It’s important, though, to drink plenty of fluids. Grandma’s remedy, chicken soup, isn’t just folklore — it really helps! Your mucous membranes are better at trapping and disposing of the virus that has invaded your nasal cavities when they are moist. “By drinking fluids, you’re also flushing out the toxins and bad stuff that’s invading your body,” Dr. Taneja-Uppal says.

Ignoring How Tired You Feel

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You really do need extra sleep when you’re not feeling well because of a cold or the flu, Taneja-Uppal says. That’s especially true if you’re running a low-grade fever, which can happen with colds, or the higher fever that accompanies the flu. Sleep helps your body fight the infection that’s causing you to feel ill. It may seem like a cliché to remind yourself to get plenty of rest, but you have to do so if you want to bounce back quickly and help your treatment do its job.

Lighting Up

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Smoking will make your cold symptoms, especially your cough, worse. “When you smoke, you’re irritating and damaging your lungs,” Taneja-Uppal says. When you have a cold, your lungs are already irritated. So smoking while you have a common cold will only worsen that irritation. You should also stay away from others who smoke as well. Secondhand smoke can be as irritating as smoking itself when you have a cold, Taneja-Uppal says.

Feeling Overly Stressed

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Stress can affect your immune system, forcing it to work harder, Taneja-Uppal says. During cold and flu season, you need your immune system to help you return to good health when you get sick. The more stressed you are, the longer a common cold can last. Learn to relax, take deep breaths, and practice other calming techniques.

Relying Too Much on Cold Treatments

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Some over-the-counter cold treatments can make you feel better. For example, nasal decongestant sprays or drops can help treat the stuffy nose of the common cold. But if you overdo them, cold treatments can actually have the opposite effect, making your cold symptoms worse. In fact, if you use a decongestant in spray or drop form for more than three to four days in a row, your nasal membranes will swell even more. Never use more than the dose recommended on the package label, and consult your doctor if you have any questions.

10 Ways to Sleep Better With a Cold

Medically Reviewed by Carol DerSarkissian, MD on November 04, 2022

Run a humidifier or vaporizer all night to release moisture into the air. Steam can loosen congestion and keep your head from drying out. Besides helping you breathe easier, moist air can soothe irritated tissues in your nose and ease sore throat pain as well. Be sure to clean and disinfect your humidifier regularly to get rid of germs.

When you have a cold, get the benefits of steam from a hot shower to make it easier to breathe. You can also try a few other ideas: Run the shower and sit in the steamy bathroom with the door shut. Bend over a sink filled with running hot water. Or put a warm compress over your sinuses.

Some cold medicines treat many problems at once, like congestion, runny nose, cough, fever, and aches. Check the ingredients carefully, and choose the medicine that most closely matches your symptoms. Decongestants can keep you awake. Antihistamines, on the other hand, might make you drowsy. If your child is under 4, don’t give them cold medicine.

When you can’t get any air in your nose, this type of nasal spray can help open up your nasal passages and ease the stuffiness. But beware — using one for more than 3 days in a row can end up making things worse.

For quick relief, gargle with warm salt water before you go to bed. You can also try over-the-counter lozenges, throat sprays, and pain relievers. Let your doctor know if you have a severe sore throat and a fever for more than 2 days — especially if you don’t have typical cold symptoms like congestion and sneezing. It could be due to a strep infection.

Some people try these sticky strips to ease congestion while they sleep. They go across the bridge of your nose to help stretch and open the nasal passages. A strip won’t break up mucus, but it may allow more space for some airflow.

You can use this over and over to loosen mucus. To make the solution, mix 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon baking soda in 8 ounces of warm distilled water. (Do not use tap water because it can be dangerous.) Pour it into in a spray bottle — the kind that can go into your nose. You can also use the mix with a neti pot to flush out your sinuses.

Rub a menthol salve on your chest and throat to soothe the cough that often comes with a cold. Don’t eat it or put it inside your nose. And never use it on children under 2.

You may have heard that your sinuses will drain more easily if you prop up your head on many pillows. Doctors say this isn’t a good idea, because it bends your neck in a way that can make it harder to breathe. So raise the head of the bed instead. You can put large books under the legs of your headboard and secure them. This creates a gentler, more natural incline.

A cold can make it hard to stick with a set bedtime. But it’s best to wake up and head to bed at the same times as usual. Sticking to a schedule not only makes it easier to fall asleep — it can help fight off the next cold. One study suggests that people who don’t get enough Zzz’s are three times more likely to catch a cold than those who get 8 or more hours of shut-eye a night.

IMAGES PROVIDED BY:

1. Sean Justice / Photodisc
2. Trinette Reed / Photolibrary
3. Fuse
4. MIXA / Getty Images
5. Image Source / Getty
6. Steve Pomberg / WebMD
7. Valery Rizzo / Workbook Stock
8. Steve Pomberg / WebMD
9. Brand New Images / Stone
10. Image Source / Getty

SOURCES:

American Academy of Pediatrics: “Cough and Cold Medicine – Not for Children.”

Brown University Health Education: “Sinusitis.”

DailyMed, U.S. National Library of Medicine: “Vaporizing Chest Rub.”

FamilyDoctor.org: “Cold and Flu.”

Go Ask Alice, Columbia University: “Nose Won’t Stop Running.”

Group Health Cooperative: Treating Colds and Flu.”

HealthyWomen.org: “Coping with Nasal Congestion.”

Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, Oct. 30, 2009.

Seattle Children’s: “Coughs and Colds: Medicines or Home Remedies?”

University of Maryland Medical Center: “Nasal congestion – Treatment. “

University of Michigan Health System: “Saline Nasal Sprays & Irrigation.”

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13 Tips for Treatment with Medication, Rest and Sleep

Learn 13 helpful tips for treating a cold that will help you manage your symptoms. In the article you will find information about medicines, rest and sleep for a quick recovery.

The common cold is a common illness that can affect anyone. It is caused by various types of viruses that spread rapidly among sick and healthy people in the environment. Although common, the common cold can lead to serious complications, especially for people with weakened immune systems. Therefore, it is very important to know how to treat a cold in order to quickly get rid of it and not endanger your health.

In this article, we will share with you 13 tips for treating a cold with medication, rest and sleep. You’ll learn about which medicines help with a cold, how to take them correctly to get the best effect, and how to let your body fight the disease without taking unnecessary chemicals. Our tips will help you quickly and effectively get rid of a cold and return to your normal life.

How to get rid of a cold: 13 tips

Colds are common, especially during the autumn and winter holidays. Her symptoms include runny nose, cough, sore throat and headache. To cure a cold, you need to rest and apply effective treatment.

Here are 13 tips to help you get rid of a cold:

1. Drink plenty of fluids. Good choices are tea with honey and lemon, hot chocolate, or warm chicken broth. This will help moisturize the mucous membranes and soften the throat.
2. Rest as much as possible to allow your body to focus on fighting infection.
3. Use nasal drops to relieve nasal congestion and reduce mucus. However, do not abuse these funds, their lack can lead to the opposite effect.
4. Use medication to relieve pain and reduce fever. However, make sure the medicine you choose is safe and right for you.
5. Apply a hot compress to relieve a sore throat. To do this, use hot water and a towel, do not forget to check the temperature of the water beforehand.
6. Use hot drinks or food to soothe your throat and reduce coughing. An excellent choice would be warm milk with honey and butter, as well as soup and broth.
7. Use cleansers such as inhalers and sprays. They will help you breathe easier and relieve symptoms.
8. Apply warm compresses to the chest to relieve coughs and body aches. To do this, you can use mustard patches or bombs based on eucalyptus.
9. Avoid large amounts of alcohol and snacking, as these can increase inflammation and make your condition worse.
10. Avoid synthetic clothes and shoes, instead choose warm and soft clothes.
11. Avoid contact with people when you are sick to avoid infecting them with the cold virus.
12. Breathe in fresh air by opening windows or going for a walk. This will help improve your condition and prevent congestion in your lungs.
13. Establish a proper daily routine to give your body a chance to recover and fight colds more effectively.

Daily routine

During a cold, it is recommended to rest more and get enough hours of sleep. Do not forget about the correct daily routine:

• Get up and go to bed at the same time every day, including days off.
• Don’t overwork yourself and don’t forget to take breaks during the day to rest and rejuvenate.
• In the morning start with light exercise, stretching or yoga to improve blood circulation in the body.

Also don’t forget to eat right:

• Drink more fluids: water, tea and broths.
• Avoid fatty and heavy meals, carbonated drinks, alcohol, coffee and strong tea.
• Add more vegetables, fruits, and protein foods to your diet to help boost your immune system.

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Hot drink

Hot drink is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to help your body fight a cold. A hot drink moisturizes the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, reducing nasal congestion and relieving coughs. In addition, hot drinks can help relieve headaches and improve your mood.

Most people prefer to drink hot drinks when they have a cold, including hot water, tea, coffee, boiling water, juices and soups. Some drinks, such as ginger tea or honey tea, can be especially helpful.

Ginger Tea is an excellent antibacterial and antiviral drink that can help boost your immune system and fight off colds. To prepare ginger tea, you need to cut fresh ginger and pour hot water over it, then add lemon juice and honey to taste.

Honey tea is also a great way to soothe your throat and reduce coughs. To make this tea, you just need to add honey to hot tea.

• Hot drink moistens the airways and relieves nasal congestion
• Ginger tea can help fight colds and boost the immune system
• Honey tea soothes the throat and reduces coughs

Use medicine

If you already have a cold, you can use medicine to relieve some of the symptoms. It can also help speed up the healing process.

However, do not overuse drugs and follow the instructions on the package. Some medicines can have side effects and too much can be harmful to your health.

Antibiotics are not recommended for use in colds as they are useless if the cold is caused by a virus. Antibiotics can only help if your doctor determines that you have a bacterial infection that needs treatment.

antiviral medicines may be effective for certain types of viruses, such as influenza, if taken as soon as symptoms appear. Talk to your doctor to discuss which antiviral medications may be right for you.

Nasal Vasoconstrictor Drops may help relieve nasal congestion, but should not be used for more than 3-4 days as they may backfire and aggravate symptoms.

Antipyretic drugs may reduce fever and relieve a sore throat or headache. However, do not exceed the recommended dosage and follow the directions on the package.

Chest preparations and cough syrups can help relieve cough and chest congestion. However, do not use them if you are coughing up mucus, as these medicines can lead to buildup and worsening of symptoms.

Drink plenty of water

During a cold, the body loses a lot of water in the form of fumes, fever and sweat. This leads to dehydration and weakens the immune system, making it more vulnerable to infection.

Therefore, it is very important to drink plenty of water in order to replenish the body’s water reserves and strengthen the immune system. Pure water allows you to speed up the dehydration of germs and toxins that cause cold symptoms.

To ensure that your body gets enough water, it is recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. Water can help clear the mucous membranes in the airways, reducing inflammation and improving lung and bronchial function.

• A good way to increase your water intake is to keep a bottle of water on the table and drink it every time you feel like it. It will also reduce the need to remind yourself to increase the amount of water you drink.
• Another way to increase your water intake is to add water to your diet, including soups, fruits and vegetables, which are high in water.

Remember the importance of drinking regularly to stay hydrated and help the immune system fight disease.

Eat right

The foods you eat are important to your health. During the period of illness, it is important to pay attention to your diet and eat food that promotes recovery.

Stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables, which are rich in vitamins and antioxidants needed for a healthy immune system. Oatmeal and eggs are an excellent source of protein that helps tissues and organs recover from illness.

Avoid fatty or sugary foods, smoked meats and canned foods. These products can cause exacerbations of the disease and worsen the state of health.

• Make a budget for healthy food purchases;
• Ask someone to help you with shopping and cooking if you feel weak;
• Remember to drink hot drinks such as honey tea or chicken broth to soothe your throat and soothe your cough.

Eat the right nutrition and you will notice an improvement in your health within a few days. Also, don’t forget about moderation in your food intake, even if your diet is healthy and correct.

Use herbs

Herbs can help strengthen the immune system and relieve cold symptoms. It is recommended to consult a homeopath or naturopath for individual treatment recommendations. Here are a few herbs that may help:

• Echinacea: strengthens the immune system and reduces cold symptoms such as sore throat and runny nose.
• Ginseng: improves the immune system and helps the body fight stress and fatigue.
• Turmeric: has strong anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce cold symptoms such as sore throat and cough.
• Ginger tea: helps soothe sore throats and reduce cold symptoms such as runny nose and cough.

Herbs can be used in the form of teas, capsules or tinctures. It is important to follow the instructions on the package and consult your doctor if you have any medical conditions or are taking medication.

Have a steam room

One of the most effective and ancient remedies for fighting a cold is a steam room. The steam room helps to expand blood vessels and improve blood circulation, which helps to remove harmful substances from the body.

The steam room also makes breathing easier and improves immunity, which helps fight the disease. In the steam room, you can use essential oils, such as eucalyptus, which has anti-inflammatory properties and makes breathing easier.

However, if you have a fever, then you should postpone going to the steam room until better times, as such a procedure can aggravate the condition of the body.

If you do not have the opportunity to visit a bath or sauna, you can create a steam room just in the shower by turning on hot water and closing the door to create steam.

Try mustard plasters

Mustard plasters are an excellent remedy for fighting colds. They help to warm up the body, improve blood circulation and reduce pain.

To make mustard plaster, you will need mustard powder and water. Mix 2-3 tablespoons of mustard powder with a little water to make a paste. Apply the prepared paste on a cold area, such as chest, back or legs, and leave for 15-20 minutes.

Do not forget to ventilate the room or put on warm clothes after the mustard plaster. Also be careful not to leave the paste on the skin for too long, as it can cause burns. Mustard plasters should not be used at elevated body temperature and on skin that has been treated with allergens or toxic substances.

Mustard plasters can be used in conjunction with other treatments such as drinking warm liquids and resting in bed. If the desired effect is not achieved, it is necessary to seek medical help.

Apply topical treatment

Medicated ointments and nose drops may work throughout the day. They can relieve symptoms and relieve pain.

Medicated throat sprays and ointments can help relieve sore and irritated throats. They can also clear excess mucus from the throat and nose.

• Use anti-inflammatory ointments for resorption for laryngitis and pharyngitis.
• Use ointment for a runny nose to help relieve nasal congestion.
• Use mucosal moisturizing sprays for nasal congestion.

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The use of medicated ointments and sprays is one of the effective topical treatments that can help fight colds. It is important to consult with your doctor to choose the most appropriate remedies.

Protect your throat

The throat is one of the main organs that are affected during a cold. Therefore, it is important to take measures to protect it:

• Warm your throat: use warm drinks, hot compresses, and simple inhalations to relieve pain and reduce inflammation;
• Drink plenty of fluids: drink plenty of water and warm drinks to keep your throat moist and dry;
• Avoid smoking: smoking makes the throat worse and increases the risk of infection;
• Pay attention to food: eat plenty of fruits and vegetables to get the necessary amount of vitamins to prevent colds;
• Avoid contact with allergens: if you have allergies, try to avoid contact with allergens that can cause a throat reaction;
• At the first symptoms of a cold: rest, do not strain your vocal cords or breathe cold air;
• Use remedies: use medicines and remedies to reduce pain and speed up recovery;

Humidify the air

One of the easiest ways to relieve the symptoms of a cold, as well as prevent their occurrence, is to humidify the air. The standard humidity level in the room should be at least 40%, however, during the cold season, when we often turn on the heating, the humidity level can drop very much.

Dry air not only dries out the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, but also increases the risk of infection by viruses and bacteria, because in such an environment they feel most comfortable and able to survive longer.

As a way to humidify the air, you can use humidifiers sold in pharmacies. They work on the principle of water evaporation, thus humidifying the air. It is important to monitor the water level in the humidifier and change it regularly.

Other methods of humidifying the air can also be used, such as placing water containers on radiators, scattered plants, or even simply turning on an open basin of water in the room.

Humidification of the air can greatly relieve colds and help prevent them. However, do not forget that too high a humidity level can also cause the development of other diseases, so do not abuse the humidification of the air.

Rest

When you have a cold, you should definitely pay attention to rest. The body needs extra time to fight infection and recuperate.

Try to sleep at least 8 hours a day so that the body has enough time to regenerate. To improve the quality of sleep, you can drink herbal tea or warm milk with honey.

It is also useful to spend time in a quiet environment, listen to pleasant music or read a book. Avoid physical activity and stressful situations as this can worsen your condition.

• Take time to rest and sleep to speed up healing;
• Spend time in a calm environment and avoid stress;
• Enjoy herbal teas and pleasant music to relieve nervous tension and improve sleep quality.

Exercise

Exercise can be the key to boosting your immune system and preventing colds. This is due to the fact that exercise helps improve blood circulation and stimulates the production of nutrients that strengthen the body’s defenses.

The best way to start exercising is to choose something that suits your fitness level. Start with simple exercises you can do at home like push-ups, crunches, and squats.

If you have the opportunity to go to the gym, choose workouts that will help you strengthen your muscles and improve the distribution of oxygen in your body. Cardio exercise, such as running, cycling, or skiing, can also help reduce your risk of getting a cold.

In general, the goal should be to aim for 30-45 minutes of physical activity per day. Use your preferences and opportunities to create your own daily exercise program.

• Start slowly and gradually improve your training regimen;
• Don’t forget about outdoor walks, which help increase blood oxygen levels;
• Drink plenty of water during exercise;
• Do not load yourself too much, so as not to backfire and weaken your immune system.

Q&A:

Which medications help get rid of a cold faster?

There are many medicines that can help get rid of a cold. Some of them are: aspirin, ibuprofen, paracetamol, naphazoline, phenylephrine and decongestants. But remember that medicines do not solve the cause of the disease, they can only alleviate the symptoms.

Is it possible to get rid of a cold without taking medicine?

Of course you can. There are many ways to get rid of a cold, such as rest, increased fluid intake, vitamin C, hot drinks, warm compresses. However, if the illness is too severe, then you may need to take medication.

Can I drink alcohol when I have a cold?

No, you should not drink alcohol when you have a cold. Alcohol can negatively affect your health and weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to viruses and infections.

Can I ignore the symptoms of a cold?

No, cold symptoms should not be ignored because they can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, sinusitis, bronchitis and even pneumonia. It is necessary to start treatment as early as possible to avoid such complications.

What should I do if my cold doesn’t go away for more than a week?

If a cold persists for more than a week, see a doctor. This may be a sign of a serious infection or other health problems. The doctor will conduct additional studies and give recommendations for treatment.

Can I exercise when I have a cold?

No, you should not exercise when you have a cold. Physical activity can aggravate the symptoms of the disease and slow down its healing process. You need to rest and give your body time to recover.

What should I do to avoid catching a cold?

To avoid a cold, you need to take care of your health, provide your body with vitamins and minerals, avoid contact with sick people, wash your hands often and ventilate the premises. It is also recommended to get vaccinated against the flu.

Related videos:

Is it possible to walk with a cold without fever: doctors’ recommendations

Content

• 1 To walk or not to walk with a cold: is it safe?
  • 1.1 What is a cold
  • 1.2 How is a cold transmitted
    • 1.2.1 Airborne transmission
    • 1.2.2 Contact transmission
    • 1.2.3 Carrying the virus

    900 55

    • 1.3 Symptoms of a cold
      • 1.3.1 Main symptoms of a cold
      • 1.3.2 Additional symptoms of a cold
    • no: what doctors recommend for colds without fever
    • 1.6 Benefits of walking outdoors
    • 1.7 How to walk when you have a cold?
    • 1.8 When not to walk when you have a cold
    • 1.9 How to avoid infecting others
    • 1.10 What to do if you have a fever when you have a cold
    • 1.11 Protecting your body when walking when you have a cold
    • gulk with a cold without fever?
    • 1. 13 Strengthening the immune system in case of a cold
    • 1.14 What to drink in case of a cold?
    • 1.15 How to help the body fight a cold?
      • 1.15.1 Drink plenty of fluids
      • 1.15.2 Get enough sleep
      • 1.15.3 Eat antioxidants
      • 1.15.4 Live a healthy lifestyle
    • 1 .16 Other ways to fight a cold
      • 1.16.1 Drink hot drinks
      • 1.16.2 Drink plenty of fluids
      • 1.16.3 Use mild cold medicines
      • 1.16.4 Humidify the air
    • 1.17 Additional advice from doctors
    • 1.18 Video on the topic:

  Are you wondering if it is possible to walk with a cold without a fever? We understand this issue and give recommendations on how to properly tell yourself during an illness. Find out what you need to pay attention to so as not to aggravate your condition.

  The common cold is a common illness that can weaken the immune system and leave the body vulnerable to other, more dangerous infections. The question of whether it is possible to walk with a cold without raising the temperature is quite frequent and causes a lot of controversy.
  Doctors have long been saying that the main rule of a healthy lifestyle is movement. But the question is, is it harmful to go out when you are “aching” and tickling in your throat. The answer to this question is not so simple: it all depends on how you feel and in what conditions you are planning a walk.
  In this article, we will look at all aspects of the right walk for a cold without raising the temperature, and recommendations from doctors that will help you figure out when and how you can walk without harming your health.

  What is a cold

  The common cold is a disease caused by a virus that affects the upper respiratory tract. The common cold usually presents with symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, sore throat, headache, and general weakness. It is easy to catch a cold when you come into contact with a sick person or when you catch a virus from the environment.

  The common cold is not a serious illness, but it can be uncomfortable and interfere with your daily life. Most people get colds without a fever, but you still experience some symptoms that can make your life very difficult.

  Most colds go away without treatment and you can manage them at home. However, if you have any concerns or if you do not know how to quickly improve your condition, be sure to get the advice of a medical specialist. Your doctor will help you understand the situation and choose the best treatment for your cold.

  • Important to know! Colds can be contagious, so close contact with sick people should be avoided and social distancing should be maintained.
  • Another fact: You can reduce your risk of catching a cold by taking basic hygiene measures such as washing your hands and practicing cough and sneeze hygiene.

  How a cold is transmitted

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  0% ash way. This means that the main danger lies in the fact that the sick person coughs, sneezes, exhales a large amount of viruses and bacteria with the air, which are then inhaled by other people. It is also possible to transmit the disease through coughing and sneezing into the hand, then shaking hands with a healthy person or touching common surfaces (handles, doorknobs, etc.).

  Contact route of transmission

  Contact transmission of colds is also possible when a person touches contaminated surfaces with viruses or bacteria and then touches the face, nose, eyes, mouth.

  Carriage of the virus

  It should be taken into account that a cold can be transmitted not only from the patient, but also from its carriers. A carrier of the virus may not have visible symptoms and report a cold even to a healthy person.

  In general, transmission of the common cold does not only occur in noisy places such as the subway, work or school, but can also occur in open spaces such as when walking.

  Remember that the common cold is a viral disease transmitted from person to person. Accordingly, the main method of preventing the transmission of the virus is to exclude contact with people, to avoid conditions where the transmission of the disease from one person to another is possible.

  Common cold symptoms

  Common cold symptoms

  The common cold is an acute viral illness of the respiratory tract that can present with a variety of symptoms. The main signs of a cold are:

  1. Runny nose
  2. Cough
  3. Headache
  4. Sore throat
  5. Fatigue
  6. Mild fever

  These symptoms may appear individually or in combination, their intensity may vary depending on the human body.

  Additional symptoms of a cold

  In addition to the main symptoms of a cold, some people may experience additional symptoms.

  • Chills
  • Trembling in the body
  • Pain in the muscles and joints
  • Swelling of the glands
  • Loss of appetite

  All of these cold symptoms are temporary and usually disappear within a few days. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen for a long time, you should consult a doctor.

  Cold temperature: how it changes and what it means

  The common cold is a very common illness that can lead to unpleasant symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, sore throat, weakness and fever.

  When you have a cold, your temperature may rise or remain normal. Usually, in cases where the temperature rises above 38 degrees, it is recommended to stay at home and rest to help the body fight the disease.

  However, if the temperature remains normal, you can continue to do your normal business schedule and even exercise.

  In any case, for any clinical manifestations of a cold, it is necessary to follow the recommendations of a doctor who can make an accurate diagnosis and offer effective treatment.

  To walk or not: what doctors recommend for a cold without a fever However, just because you’ve been diagnosed with a cold but don’t have a fever doesn’t mean you can forget about self-care activities and go outside 24/7.

  

  Doctors agree: if you have a cold without a fever, you can go for a walk and you should do it, but you should not overdo it and be sure to take certain measures. On the one hand, fresh air helps to improve overall well-being and can have a beneficial effect on the treatment of illness. On the other hand, the body is weakened in this state, and active physical activity is usually not recommended.

  • Don’t forget your clothes. It is important that you are warmly dressed and protected from the wind.
  • Don’t forget the time mode. Do not walk for too long, especially in cold weather. If there is a particularly strong wind or frost outside, it is better to postpone the walk altogether.
  • Although it is possible to walk even if you have a cold, it is important to consider that it is better to stay at home if your head is spinning or you have allergies to certain environmental factors.

  As a result, we can conclude that it is possible and necessary to go for a walk with a cold without fever, but only within reasonable limits and taking into account the general condition of the body and external factors.

  Benefits of walking in the fresh air

  Walking in the fresh air is an excellent means of maintaining health and good spirits. They help reduce the risk of developing fatigue, stress, and depression. Walking in the fresh air can increase energy levels in the body, strengthen the immune system and improve mood.

  Walking outdoors improves blood circulation, increases blood oxygen levels and strengthens the cardiovascular system. It also prevents the development of obesity and helps control blood sugar levels.

  If you have a cold without a fever, walking can help reduce your symptoms. While walking, you will be constantly exposed to fresh air, which helps to clear the nose and lungs of mucus, relieve nasal congestion and reduce coughing.

  However, it is worth considering that you should not overwork and take on unnecessary physical activity. The best option would be a walk in the fresh air for 30-60 minutes.

  How to walk with a cold?

  When we catch a cold, there is a desire to go to bed and not go out anywhere. However, do not forget about the usefulness of fresh air and light physical activity during illness. Let’s figure out how to walk with a cold without compromising health.

  • Dress properly. Choose clothing appropriate for the weather and dress warmly. Don’t forget a warm hat and gloves to protect your head and hands from the cold.
  • Do not get cold. When you have a cold, it is very important to avoid hypothermia. Don’t let your feet get wet, don’t get a sore throat, and don’t put yourself through a lot of exercise.
  • Choose the right route. If you are walking to get some air and warm up, choose routes with a minimum number of people and cars. Avoid walking past shops and cafes so as not to be tempted into something bad for your health.
  • Watch your breathing and body temperature. If you experience difficulty breathing or fatigue while walking, it is best to return home and rest. Also keep an eye on your body temperature, and if it starts to rise, return home and take steps to reduce the temperature.

  In general, it is possible and even necessary to take a walk when you have a cold, if you need to ventilate and unwind. However, do not forget about your health and do not allow hypothermia or other negative consequences for your body. Take care of yourself and be healthy!

  When it is better not to go for a walk with a cold

  During a cold, the body is in a state of weakened immunity, which makes it more vulnerable to external factors. Therefore, if you feel weak, tired, have a runny nose and cough, it is better to postpone the walk for another time.

  Also, if you have gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, outdoor activities are not recommended as this can aggravate symptoms and lead to dehydration.

  What’s more, if you have any cold-related complications such as bronchitis, pneumonia or asthma, you should also avoid going outside as the cold and humidity can worsen your health.

  Remember that when you are sick, it is important to allow the body to rest and recover, drink more fluids, take medicines and follow the recommendations of doctors. And only after a full recovery, you can return to walks in the fresh air.

  Important! To avoid illness, do not get cold, dress according to the weather and avoid contact with sick people.

  How to avoid infecting others

  If you have a cold without a fever, you can still infect other people. To avoid this, follow these simple precautions:

  • Wear a medical mask to prevent spreading germs around you
  • Avoid contact with people, especially those who are immunocompromised
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water to reduce germs on your skin
  • Decontaminate germ-prone surfaces with regular antiseptics

  Take care of your health and the health of others by following these simple tips to help prevent the spread of disease.

  What to do if the temperature rises during a cold

  An increase in temperature during a cold is a natural reaction of the body to a viral infection. However, if the temperature rises above 38 degrees, measures must be taken to reduce it.

  First of all, you should consult a doctor, who will prescribe the necessary treatment and recommend remedies to reduce the temperature. Antipyretic drugs, folk remedies such as raspberry tea or cranberry juice, as well as a drinking regimen and a pleasant cool climate in the room can act as such remedies.

  Various procedures can also be effective in reducing fever, such as rubbing with water at room temperature or taking warm baths. But it is important to remember that some methods can be hazardous to health, so you should definitely consult a doctor.

  It is important to remember that a rise in temperature during a cold is a natural process aimed at fighting the infection. But at temperatures above 38 degrees, it is necessary to take appropriate measures to reduce it, and only after consulting a doctor.

  Protecting the body when walking during a cold

  When walking in cold weather during a cold, special attention should be paid to protecting certain parts of the body. First of all, it is necessary to protect the head from the cold, since most of the heat is lost through the head. For this, a hat or hood is suitable.

  • It is also worth wrapping with a scarf or close the collar of outer clothing well to protect the neck from cold air.
  • Warm outer clothing, such as a windbreaker or jacket, and warm pants or tights should be worn.
  • Warm woolen socks and warm shoes should be worn to protect against damp and cold feet.

  Do not forget about mittens or gloves, which will help keep your hands warm and protect them from cold and wind. It is also very important not to be in the cold for more than two hours, even if you are warmly dressed and do not have a fever. This can damage health and slow down the healing process.

  How to dress for a walk with a cold without a fever?

  When walking during a cold, it is recommended to dress warmly so as not to get too cold, but not to overheat. The ideal option would be to wear several warm layers of clothing that can be removed as needed.

  Choose fabrics that are pleasant to the touch and retain heat well. You also need to make sure that the clothes will not create discomfort when moving.

  If the cold is strong and cool air penetrates through clothing, you can wear an outer layer of a warm windbreaker. Do not forget also warm hats, scarves and gloves to keep warm during the walk.

  Many people think that masks are effective protection against colds, but this is not always the case. Wearing a mask while walking is fine, but not a requirement for everyone.

  If you are in doubt about how to dress properly, ask your doctor. He will provide you with recommendations based on your current condition and your medical history.

  Immune Support for Colds

  When you have a cold, your body needs extra support to fight off the infection. Nutrition and daily routine can help you strengthen your immunity and cope with the disease faster.

  • Drink plenty of fluids: juices, teas, soups and water will help hydrate your mucous membranes and your body as a whole.
  • Eat foods rich in vitamins: fruits and vegetables, fresh or frozen, are rich in vitamin C, which helps to strengthen the immune system.
  • Get enough sleep: Your body fights infection best when you sleep, so make sure you get enough sleep and rest.
  • Avoid stress: Stress can weaken your immune system, so try to relax and reduce your stress levels.
  • Take probiotics: they help maintain a healthy microflora in your gastrointestinal tract and your immune system in general.
  • Use herbs and spices: Certain herbs and spices, such as ginger, garlic, and lemon balm, can help manage cold symptoms and boost immunity.

  What to drink with a cold?

  The common cold is a disease caused by viruses that presents with various symptoms such as runny nose, cough, headache, and sore throat. One of the most important points in the treatment of a cold is proper hydration of the body and maintaining fluid balance. Therefore, the main drink for a cold should be water.

  In addition, it is very important to include drinks containing vitamin C in the diet for colds: freshly squeezed fruit juices, including lemon, blueberry or raspberry, and fruit teas. These drinks not only improve the general condition of the body, but also help fight viruses and painful symptoms.

  Warm drinks are recommended to reduce congestion in the nose. Using hot drinks like herbal tea can help with headaches and sore throats. In addition, you can use the antioxidants found in green or black tea. They help speed up the healing process.

  But it is worth remembering that not all drinks are good for colds. For example, alcohol and coffee are not recommended to be consumed in large quantities, as they can aggravate the disease. With a cold, it is necessary to limit the intake of salty and fatty foods, as well as smoking and any other exposure that can worsen the general condition of the body.

  In general, to speed up the recovery process from a cold, you need to drink plenty of fluids, especially drinks containing vitamin C and antioxidants, and avoid inappropriate drinks and foods.

  How to help the body fight a cold?

  Drink plenty of fluids

  One of the main and most effective ways to help the body fight a cold is to increase fluid intake. It is recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to maintain lymph circulation and oxygen to the cells.

  Get enough sleep

  Healthy sleep helps fight colds, as the body repairs and regenerates during it. It is recommended to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.

  Eat Antioxidants

  Antioxidants help boost the immune system, which helps fight off colds. They are found in vegetables and fruits such as apples and carrots, as well as some fish such as salmon and mackerel.

  Maintain a healthy lifestyle

  Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as not smoking, eating well and exercising, helps fight colds and boosts immunity.

  Example of a menu for fighting a cold Time of day Eating

  9:00	Oatmeal with berries and matcha tea
  12:00	Avocado and green tea toast
  15:00	Nuts and apple
  18:00	Fresh salmon and rice
  21:00	Buckwheat porridge with green tea

  Other cold remedies Drinks such as tea or chicken broth can help relieve cold symptoms, including nasal congestion and sore throat.

  What’s more, hot drinks help to moisten the mucous membranes and relieve coughing.

  Drink plenty of fluids

  Stay hydrated when you have a cold. When you are sick, you lose more fluid than usual. Drink water, coconut water, chicken broth, and other fluids to help your body fight infection.

  Use non-weak cold medicines

  For better relief of cold symptoms, doctors recommend using stronger medicines that contain several ingredients. This may include decongestants and the use of nasal drops or sprays. But be sure to consult your doctor and find out which drugs will be suitable for you.

  Humidify the air

  When the air is too dry, it can increase cold symptoms. Humidify the air with a humidifier to reduce irritation in your throat and nose.

  • Conclusion: These are just a few of the many ways to fight a cold, but the most important thing is to take care of yourself and remember to rest when you are sick. If the symptoms do not improve over time, the best solution is to see a doctor.