Chest Cold Remedies
You don't have to run to your local pharmacy every time you catch a chest cold. There are home remedies that may help you manage the symptom of the condition, and reduce your discomfort. Let's see what these remedies are...
You don't have to run to your local pharmacy every time you catch a chest cold. There are home remedies that may help you manage the symptom of the condition, and reduce your discomfort. Let's see what these remedies are...
Every year, nearly a billion people suffer from chest colds in the
United States. Also known as acute bronchitis, chest cold is caused by
the inflammation of the bronchial tubes in the lungs. Unlike a common
cold or a head cold that affects the nasopharyngeal area of the upper
respiratory tract, chest colds affect the lower respiratory tract.
The constriction of these tubes that carry air to the lungs along with the production of mucus can lead to chest pain, wheezing, cough with mucus, mild headaches, muscle aches, sore throat, low-grade fever, and constant fatigue.
Chest colds are most often caused by viruses. This is the reason that many antibiotics fail to work for the chest and even head colds. Touching an infected surface or inhaling the virus containing water droplets when close to an infected person can lead to this form of infection. Certain things like inhaling tobacco smoke, or being exposed to air pollution, dust and dirt, can lead to irritation and inflammation of the bronchial tubes. In rare cases, bacterial infections can also lead to chest colds.
Who is at Risk
Chest colds are more prevalent in children as compared to adults, as their immune systems are not very well-developed. They often occur after a cold or other upper respiratory tract infections. Moreover, close contact with other children affected with a cold and flu at schools and day care centers can further aggravate the problem. Other people who are at a risk of contacting the infection include the elderly, smokers, and people with lung problems. The symptoms of a cold appear two to three days after the infection, and stay on for a couple of days. In majority of cases, the symptoms recede on their own, and the only thing that can help is plenty of rest. However, if the symptoms of a chest cold are extremely troubling, then try some simple cures.
Remedies for a Chest Cold
humidifier
Inhaling Steam
Breathing in steam from a vaporizer or humidifier, hot shower or even a pan of boiling water can reduce the phlegm in the throat and lungs. This needs to be done at least two times everyday for around thirty minutes. The moist hot air from the humidifier clears up the mucus, and allows you to dispense it out easily. Alternately, add 3 to 4 drops of aromatherapy essential oils, like eucalyptus oil, for instant relief. Keep a hot pack on the chest to ease the congestion and pressure on the chest. If you do not have a hot pack, then dip a cloth in hot water, wring out all the water, and place it on the chest and throat.
Caution: Humidifiers and vaporizers can harbor bacteria. It is therefore necessary to clean it regularly.
Lemon Water
Increase Fluid Intake
We have all heard of how good it is to have lots of water. However, when affected by a chest cold it is absolutely necessary to have excess water. As the nasal passages go dry due to the inflammation and swelling, it is best to keep the body hydrated with water, juices, clear broth and lemon water with honey. This can help relieve the chest cold by flushing out the phlegm from the system while keeping you from dehydrating.
Eating water enriched foods like cucumber and watermelon can also help in keeping you fresh and free of any dehydration. Switch from caffeinated drinks like teas and coffees to decaffeinated versions of the same.
Caution: Cut down on caffeine, alcohol, and intake of other sugary drinks, as they can lead to dehydration.
Salt Water
Saltwater Gargles
One of the most common remedies for a scratchy throat caused by chest cold is saltwater gargles. Gargling is done by taking in some hot liquid in the mouth, and then tilting the head back so that the liquid reaches the throat region. When air is expelled through the lungs, the water in the throat bubbles and there is a distinct gargling sound. To make saltwater gargles, dissolve half-a-teaspoon salt in an 8 ounce glass of warm water and use it for gargling.
The salt water relieves the itchiness in the throat and washes away the mucus. Do this after every three to four hours to relieve the sore throat. It is important to note that gargling with salt water can only help get temporary relief from the scratchy throat.
Vapor-Rub
Vapor Rubs
Reduce the pressure on the chest by applying some menthol vapor rub on it. These vapor rubs are easily available at all chemists and local drugstores. Alternately make vapor rub at home using eucalyptus oil, thyme oil, beeswax and olive oil. Mix 1 oz. of olive oil with half a teaspoon of beeswax in a container and place it on low heat. Allow the beeswax to melt before taking it off heat, and adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil and thyme oil. Stir and allow the mixture to cool. Rub this vapor rub on the chest before going off to sleep at night to ease the cough and cold symptoms.
Caution: Vapor Rubs can cause some mild skin irritation in people with sensitive skin. If there is any itching or other discomfort then do not use the vapor rub.
Herbal Tea
Herbal Teas
Herbs such as thyme and chamomile are excellent chest cold remedy. Place two tablespoons of fresh thyme into a small cup of boiling water. Allow it to boil for about four minutes, while keeping it covered. Once done, drink this herbal tea when it is still hot. Thyme tea is a powerful remedy which helps relax the lungs and promotes expectoration of mucus. Some people also prefer echinacea tea to soothe the sore throat and boost the body's ability to fight against infections. Pour a few drops of echinacea tincture in the tea to cure the chest cold faster.
Caution: Before using any herbal supplements, do contact a health care provider, especially if you are on some other medications or have certain ailments.
Nasal Spray
Saline Nasal Sprays
Saline nasal sprays can combat stuffiness of the nose. The sprays add a fine mist of saline solution into the nostrils to help clear blocked and irritated nostrils. Apart from removing the congestion in the nostrils, saline nasal sprays also provide relief from allergic sinus symptoms caused due to dust or pollen. They help in decongestion, especially in babies and toddlers. The best part of home nasal sprays is the fact that they won't leave you with the irritation in the nostrils, commonly associated with chemical nasal decongestants.
To use these nasal sprays, insert the tip of the spray into the nose, and squirt a tiny amount of the solution into the nose. For babies, use nasal bulb syringe to spray the saline water into the nostrils.
Hot Soup
Chicken Soup
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic believe that eating chicken soup helps relieve chest cold and flu symptoms. It speeds up the mucus movement, and is an excellent anti-inflammatory remedy for reducing of the cold. Vegetarians or vegans, can have any other hot soup instead of chicken soup. The trick here is to have the soup while it is hot, for the steam helps in clearing the mucus while the soup keeps the system hydrated.
Orange Juice
Boosting the Immune System
Boost your immune system by taking vitamin C supplements or drinking orange juice. A strong immune system can keep cold, flu and many other common diseases at bay. A healthy diet including fruits, vegetables and foods that contain adequate vitamins and minerals can also help in fighting off the infection. Some foods like ginger, garlic, turmeric and honey are extremely effective against sore throat.
Caution: Avoid fried foods as they irritate the sore throat. Dairy products can also lead to an increase in mucus production and hence should be avoided.
What to Avoid
✘ Avoid smoking as the excessive tobacco smoke can harm the cilia. These small hair-like growth in the bronchial tubes are responsible for filtering out the dirt and pollutants.
✘ Exposure to dirt and dust should be avoided for a few days as they can aggravate the symptoms of the chest cold.
✘ Do not touch the face with unclean hands as they can lead to the spread of infection.
✘ Avoid food allergens that can increase the mucus production. Certain foods like nuts, eggs, white pasta, processed and preserved foods are believed to aggravate the mucus production.
✘ Avoid over-the-counter cough suppressants for babies and toddlers.
The constriction of these tubes that carry air to the lungs along with the production of mucus can lead to chest pain, wheezing, cough with mucus, mild headaches, muscle aches, sore throat, low-grade fever, and constant fatigue.
Chest colds are most often caused by viruses. This is the reason that many antibiotics fail to work for the chest and even head colds. Touching an infected surface or inhaling the virus containing water droplets when close to an infected person can lead to this form of infection. Certain things like inhaling tobacco smoke, or being exposed to air pollution, dust and dirt, can lead to irritation and inflammation of the bronchial tubes. In rare cases, bacterial infections can also lead to chest colds.
Who is at Risk
Chest colds are more prevalent in children as compared to adults, as their immune systems are not very well-developed. They often occur after a cold or other upper respiratory tract infections. Moreover, close contact with other children affected with a cold and flu at schools and day care centers can further aggravate the problem. Other people who are at a risk of contacting the infection include the elderly, smokers, and people with lung problems. The symptoms of a cold appear two to three days after the infection, and stay on for a couple of days. In majority of cases, the symptoms recede on their own, and the only thing that can help is plenty of rest. However, if the symptoms of a chest cold are extremely troubling, then try some simple cures.
Remedies for a Chest Cold
humidifier
Inhaling Steam
Breathing in steam from a vaporizer or humidifier, hot shower or even a pan of boiling water can reduce the phlegm in the throat and lungs. This needs to be done at least two times everyday for around thirty minutes. The moist hot air from the humidifier clears up the mucus, and allows you to dispense it out easily. Alternately, add 3 to 4 drops of aromatherapy essential oils, like eucalyptus oil, for instant relief. Keep a hot pack on the chest to ease the congestion and pressure on the chest. If you do not have a hot pack, then dip a cloth in hot water, wring out all the water, and place it on the chest and throat.
Caution: Humidifiers and vaporizers can harbor bacteria. It is therefore necessary to clean it regularly.
Lemon Water
Increase Fluid Intake
We have all heard of how good it is to have lots of water. However, when affected by a chest cold it is absolutely necessary to have excess water. As the nasal passages go dry due to the inflammation and swelling, it is best to keep the body hydrated with water, juices, clear broth and lemon water with honey. This can help relieve the chest cold by flushing out the phlegm from the system while keeping you from dehydrating.
Eating water enriched foods like cucumber and watermelon can also help in keeping you fresh and free of any dehydration. Switch from caffeinated drinks like teas and coffees to decaffeinated versions of the same.
Caution: Cut down on caffeine, alcohol, and intake of other sugary drinks, as they can lead to dehydration.
Salt Water
Saltwater Gargles
One of the most common remedies for a scratchy throat caused by chest cold is saltwater gargles. Gargling is done by taking in some hot liquid in the mouth, and then tilting the head back so that the liquid reaches the throat region. When air is expelled through the lungs, the water in the throat bubbles and there is a distinct gargling sound. To make saltwater gargles, dissolve half-a-teaspoon salt in an 8 ounce glass of warm water and use it for gargling.
The salt water relieves the itchiness in the throat and washes away the mucus. Do this after every three to four hours to relieve the sore throat. It is important to note that gargling with salt water can only help get temporary relief from the scratchy throat.
Vapor-Rub
Vapor Rubs
Reduce the pressure on the chest by applying some menthol vapor rub on it. These vapor rubs are easily available at all chemists and local drugstores. Alternately make vapor rub at home using eucalyptus oil, thyme oil, beeswax and olive oil. Mix 1 oz. of olive oil with half a teaspoon of beeswax in a container and place it on low heat. Allow the beeswax to melt before taking it off heat, and adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil and thyme oil. Stir and allow the mixture to cool. Rub this vapor rub on the chest before going off to sleep at night to ease the cough and cold symptoms.
Caution: Vapor Rubs can cause some mild skin irritation in people with sensitive skin. If there is any itching or other discomfort then do not use the vapor rub.
Herbal Tea
Herbal Teas
Herbs such as thyme and chamomile are excellent chest cold remedy. Place two tablespoons of fresh thyme into a small cup of boiling water. Allow it to boil for about four minutes, while keeping it covered. Once done, drink this herbal tea when it is still hot. Thyme tea is a powerful remedy which helps relax the lungs and promotes expectoration of mucus. Some people also prefer echinacea tea to soothe the sore throat and boost the body's ability to fight against infections. Pour a few drops of echinacea tincture in the tea to cure the chest cold faster.
Caution: Before using any herbal supplements, do contact a health care provider, especially if you are on some other medications or have certain ailments.
Nasal Spray
Saline Nasal Sprays
Saline nasal sprays can combat stuffiness of the nose. The sprays add a fine mist of saline solution into the nostrils to help clear blocked and irritated nostrils. Apart from removing the congestion in the nostrils, saline nasal sprays also provide relief from allergic sinus symptoms caused due to dust or pollen. They help in decongestion, especially in babies and toddlers. The best part of home nasal sprays is the fact that they won't leave you with the irritation in the nostrils, commonly associated with chemical nasal decongestants.
To use these nasal sprays, insert the tip of the spray into the nose, and squirt a tiny amount of the solution into the nose. For babies, use nasal bulb syringe to spray the saline water into the nostrils.
Hot Soup
Chicken Soup
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic believe that eating chicken soup helps relieve chest cold and flu symptoms. It speeds up the mucus movement, and is an excellent anti-inflammatory remedy for reducing of the cold. Vegetarians or vegans, can have any other hot soup instead of chicken soup. The trick here is to have the soup while it is hot, for the steam helps in clearing the mucus while the soup keeps the system hydrated.
Orange Juice
Boosting the Immune System
Boost your immune system by taking vitamin C supplements or drinking orange juice. A strong immune system can keep cold, flu and many other common diseases at bay. A healthy diet including fruits, vegetables and foods that contain adequate vitamins and minerals can also help in fighting off the infection. Some foods like ginger, garlic, turmeric and honey are extremely effective against sore throat.
Caution: Avoid fried foods as they irritate the sore throat. Dairy products can also lead to an increase in mucus production and hence should be avoided.
What to Avoid
✘ Avoid smoking as the excessive tobacco smoke can harm the cilia. These small hair-like growth in the bronchial tubes are responsible for filtering out the dirt and pollutants.
✘ Exposure to dirt and dust should be avoided for a few days as they can aggravate the symptoms of the chest cold.
✘ Do not touch the face with unclean hands as they can lead to the spread of infection.
✘ Avoid food allergens that can increase the mucus production. Certain foods like nuts, eggs, white pasta, processed and preserved foods are believed to aggravate the mucus production.
✘ Avoid over-the-counter cough suppressants for babies and toddlers.
Home Remedies for Head Cold
Major differences exist when it comes to adopting a remedy that works best at driving away a devil cold, and this is because we don't know the difference between what's potent and what's not. This article tries to clear the air to give you thorough cures that don't leave you shooting in the dark.
Major differences exist when it comes to adopting a remedy that works best at driving away a devil cold, and this is because we don't know the difference between what's potent and what's not. This article tries to clear the air to give you thorough cures that don't leave you shooting in the dark.
Head cold is basically a common cold that affects the nasal
passages. Common cold is an upper respiratory infection that can affect
people of all age groups.
The causal agents of common cold are viruses that enter the body through inhaled air. Rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, adenoviruses, etc., are some of the types of viruses that may cause common cold.
When the immune system detects the presence of viruses, the mucus membranes that line the nasal passages start secreting mucus. This causes symptoms such as nasal congestion. bouts of sneezing, and headaches.
Though this condition is self-limiting and lasts for a few days, other symptoms might appear if it continues for more than a week. As the mucus thickens, one might experience facial pressure. The clear mucus drainage might turn greenish-yellow in color.
It is good to gather that there are plenty of remedies that may be put to practice at home; however, the question is, how many of these really work? Well, this is where we need to filter the odds.
Remedies that Work
✔ Gargling with warm saline water helps combat cold and cough. You may also gargle with sage tea to disinfect the oral cavity and inhale the essence of this aromatic potion.
✔ Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to a glass of water and add a teaspoon of honey to it. This drink will certainly prove potent in fighting a head cold.
✔ You may add chopped garlic to 2 tablespoons of honey and have it every night.
✔ Cinnamon powder mixed with honey taken daily for 3 days, helps in clearing the sinuses.
✔ You can also prepare a concoction by boiling small pieces of ginger in a cup of water. Strain the solution, and add a spoon of sugar to it. Drinking this concoction will give you immense relief from the symptoms. Hot ginger tea is also an effective solution to head cold.
✔ Here is another way to clear your nasal passage. You need to take 10 grams of spraguea and tie it in a clean handkerchief. Heat it in a vessel, and sniff the roasted spraguea. It is an excellent remedy to clear blocked nose.
✔ Another effective home remedy is drinking lemon-barley water. Cut a lemon in two pieces, and add it to a jar with 2 tablespoons of barley. Pour hot water into the jar, cover it, and leave it overnight. Drink this water the next morning, with or without honey. Lemon-barley water is not meant to be stored for later use. You must process it fresh every time.
✔ A salt water nasal spray is very helpful in clearing your nasal passages. All you need to do is mix about ¼ teaspoon of salt and baking soda in about 8 ounces of water. Take a bulb syringe, dropper, or a Neti pot, and fill it with this mixture. Then, leaning over a basin, spray or squirt the saline water into your nasal passage. Close one nostril, and spray the water in the other. Allow the water to drain out. Try the same process in each nostril at least 3 times. Do not overdo it as this may wash away the nasal mucus that works toward fighting infections.
✔ The humble remedy of slurping chicken soup has been around since long, and the good news is, it is deemed forever effective. After all, your mother's common reaction to common cold is to cup a hot and steaming chicken soup for you. Experts are of the opinion that chicken soup is more than comforting for a sore throat and a blocked nose. Known to contain cysteine, it relieves congestion and loosens mucus to clear nasal blockage.
✔ You need to keep yourself hydrated when down with a head cold. Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water as it will keep your throat moist. You can even drink herbal tea, fruit juices, ginger ale to ease your discomfort.
✔ Inhalation of steam is the best way to ease nasal congestion and head cold. You should hold your head over a pot containing boiling water and breathe in the steam. This will help clear the congestion and help you breathe. Also, it is helpful in draining the phlegm and mucus congesting the respiratory tract.
✔ Eucalyptus oil is very effective in clearing a blocked nose. Rub a small quantity on the sides of the nose to clear the blockage.
✔ A pinch of calamus root powder in each nostril will clear a congested nose. A warm bath also helps in relieving the body ache and fatigue caused due to the cold.
✔ The proponents of herbal medicine recommend ginseng to relieve colds. This herb is known to revert your system to normalcy and prevent fatigue and stress. Canadian researchers conducted a study on the effects of North American ginseng and noted curtailment in the intensity and duration of cold as a conclusive statement when subjects were administered with the herb. Steep the ginseng root in water for it to absorb the inherent essence in order to prepare ginseng tea.
✔ Pelargonium sidoides extracts derived from its roots are known to reduce the severity and discomfort caused by head colds, says a published study. It is not a widely known remedy for cold; nevertheless, it is as potent as its popular counterparts.
Remedies You Thought Worked
✘ A once-upon-a-time popular panacea to drive away the dreaded leak, echinacea incidentally has no hard-core supporters in research labs. Findings and continual probes in this direction ditch the concept and declare echinacea nothing more than a cure-all fallacy for cold. Known for its benefit of dragging down the duration of cold, its potency at present holds little substance.
✘ When hit by a bout of cold, why do people over-motivate themselves to pop vitamin-C pills? Well, it is "believed" that vitamin C prevents cold, and lessens your misery of fighting it by a day or two. For one, it maybe counted as one old-wisdom trickle, whose status, more often than not, remains debatable. Experts opine that daily intake of vitamin C is good, but not for cold. It does no good (or bad) to the cold. However, vitamin C may affect your gut flora, and ... there is no debate over this one. Vitamin D has a reputation to preclude cancers and infections; however the jury is still out on this issue. As of now, the diktat: It does nothing to reduce the severity and duration of cold.
✘ Zinc is quite the panjandrum among the cold-fighter pool. However, findings have been a tad shaky; the prime reason why the substance is not yet rubber-stamped. A majority of studies conducted, state that zinc does not exert any power over colds. Other studies house the concept of it being actively supportive in fighting a cold, but only within 24 hours of sensing the symptoms. On the whole, the wordage remains flawed.
✘ If you think whiskey and bourbon may help wipe out the cold, you are wasting your time. Gravitate to herbal teas and pure warm water instead. And now for the declaration: Know that alcohol- or caffeine-contained drinks are fantastic at dehydrating your system ... not good when you are supposed to stay hydrated to speed up recovery.
✘ Antibiotics are touted to be highly effective when it comes to treating colds. However, this perception is not true. Antibiotics destroy bacteria and not viruses; a cold, predominantly is caused due to viruses. Applying transitive logic, we learn one fact: Antibiotics don't work here -- not at all.
The causal agents of common cold are viruses that enter the body through inhaled air. Rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, adenoviruses, etc., are some of the types of viruses that may cause common cold.
When the immune system detects the presence of viruses, the mucus membranes that line the nasal passages start secreting mucus. This causes symptoms such as nasal congestion. bouts of sneezing, and headaches.
Though this condition is self-limiting and lasts for a few days, other symptoms might appear if it continues for more than a week. As the mucus thickens, one might experience facial pressure. The clear mucus drainage might turn greenish-yellow in color.
It is good to gather that there are plenty of remedies that may be put to practice at home; however, the question is, how many of these really work? Well, this is where we need to filter the odds.
Remedies that Work
✔ Gargling with warm saline water helps combat cold and cough. You may also gargle with sage tea to disinfect the oral cavity and inhale the essence of this aromatic potion.
✔ Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to a glass of water and add a teaspoon of honey to it. This drink will certainly prove potent in fighting a head cold.
✔ You may add chopped garlic to 2 tablespoons of honey and have it every night.
✔ Cinnamon powder mixed with honey taken daily for 3 days, helps in clearing the sinuses.
✔ You can also prepare a concoction by boiling small pieces of ginger in a cup of water. Strain the solution, and add a spoon of sugar to it. Drinking this concoction will give you immense relief from the symptoms. Hot ginger tea is also an effective solution to head cold.
✔ Here is another way to clear your nasal passage. You need to take 10 grams of spraguea and tie it in a clean handkerchief. Heat it in a vessel, and sniff the roasted spraguea. It is an excellent remedy to clear blocked nose.
✔ Another effective home remedy is drinking lemon-barley water. Cut a lemon in two pieces, and add it to a jar with 2 tablespoons of barley. Pour hot water into the jar, cover it, and leave it overnight. Drink this water the next morning, with or without honey. Lemon-barley water is not meant to be stored for later use. You must process it fresh every time.
✔ A salt water nasal spray is very helpful in clearing your nasal passages. All you need to do is mix about ¼ teaspoon of salt and baking soda in about 8 ounces of water. Take a bulb syringe, dropper, or a Neti pot, and fill it with this mixture. Then, leaning over a basin, spray or squirt the saline water into your nasal passage. Close one nostril, and spray the water in the other. Allow the water to drain out. Try the same process in each nostril at least 3 times. Do not overdo it as this may wash away the nasal mucus that works toward fighting infections.
✔ The humble remedy of slurping chicken soup has been around since long, and the good news is, it is deemed forever effective. After all, your mother's common reaction to common cold is to cup a hot and steaming chicken soup for you. Experts are of the opinion that chicken soup is more than comforting for a sore throat and a blocked nose. Known to contain cysteine, it relieves congestion and loosens mucus to clear nasal blockage.
✔ You need to keep yourself hydrated when down with a head cold. Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water as it will keep your throat moist. You can even drink herbal tea, fruit juices, ginger ale to ease your discomfort.
✔ Inhalation of steam is the best way to ease nasal congestion and head cold. You should hold your head over a pot containing boiling water and breathe in the steam. This will help clear the congestion and help you breathe. Also, it is helpful in draining the phlegm and mucus congesting the respiratory tract.
✔ Eucalyptus oil is very effective in clearing a blocked nose. Rub a small quantity on the sides of the nose to clear the blockage.
✔ A pinch of calamus root powder in each nostril will clear a congested nose. A warm bath also helps in relieving the body ache and fatigue caused due to the cold.
✔ The proponents of herbal medicine recommend ginseng to relieve colds. This herb is known to revert your system to normalcy and prevent fatigue and stress. Canadian researchers conducted a study on the effects of North American ginseng and noted curtailment in the intensity and duration of cold as a conclusive statement when subjects were administered with the herb. Steep the ginseng root in water for it to absorb the inherent essence in order to prepare ginseng tea.
✔ Pelargonium sidoides extracts derived from its roots are known to reduce the severity and discomfort caused by head colds, says a published study. It is not a widely known remedy for cold; nevertheless, it is as potent as its popular counterparts.
Remedies You Thought Worked
✘ A once-upon-a-time popular panacea to drive away the dreaded leak, echinacea incidentally has no hard-core supporters in research labs. Findings and continual probes in this direction ditch the concept and declare echinacea nothing more than a cure-all fallacy for cold. Known for its benefit of dragging down the duration of cold, its potency at present holds little substance.
✘ When hit by a bout of cold, why do people over-motivate themselves to pop vitamin-C pills? Well, it is "believed" that vitamin C prevents cold, and lessens your misery of fighting it by a day or two. For one, it maybe counted as one old-wisdom trickle, whose status, more often than not, remains debatable. Experts opine that daily intake of vitamin C is good, but not for cold. It does no good (or bad) to the cold. However, vitamin C may affect your gut flora, and ... there is no debate over this one. Vitamin D has a reputation to preclude cancers and infections; however the jury is still out on this issue. As of now, the diktat: It does nothing to reduce the severity and duration of cold.
✘ Zinc is quite the panjandrum among the cold-fighter pool. However, findings have been a tad shaky; the prime reason why the substance is not yet rubber-stamped. A majority of studies conducted, state that zinc does not exert any power over colds. Other studies house the concept of it being actively supportive in fighting a cold, but only within 24 hours of sensing the symptoms. On the whole, the wordage remains flawed.
✘ If you think whiskey and bourbon may help wipe out the cold, you are wasting your time. Gravitate to herbal teas and pure warm water instead. And now for the declaration: Know that alcohol- or caffeine-contained drinks are fantastic at dehydrating your system ... not good when you are supposed to stay hydrated to speed up recovery.
✘ Antibiotics are touted to be highly effective when it comes to treating colds. However, this perception is not true. Antibiotics destroy bacteria and not viruses; a cold, predominantly is caused due to viruses. Applying transitive logic, we learn one fact: Antibiotics don't work here -- not at all.
Head Cold Symptoms
Symptoms of head cold include headache, runny nose, and nasal congestion. While there are many other cold symptoms a person might experience, these are the most common.
Symptoms of head cold include headache, runny nose, and nasal congestion. While there are many other cold symptoms a person might experience, these are the most common.
A head cold is nothing but a common cold in which the symptoms are
more pronounced in the facial region. A common cold is a viral infection
caused in the upper respiratory tract, i.e., a person's nose and
throat. As there are over 200 viruses that can cause chest and head
cold, symptoms can vary greatly from one person to another. However,
apart from the discomfort caused by a stuffy nose, sore throat and
congestion, a common cold is usually harmless. According to the National
Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, there is no specific
medication for common cold, and it is expected to cure on its own within
10 to 14 days.
Symptoms of Head Cold
Though symptoms of head cold are mild, they may be irritating and discomforting. The symptoms may subside within 10 days on its own. The most common symptoms of a head cold are:
Sneezing
Runny nose
Nasal congestion
A stuffy nose
Mild fatigue
Pressure in the ears and sinuses
Itchy or sore throat
Low-grade fever (up to 102° F or 39° C)
Cough
Watery eyes
Muscle ache
Mild headache
Loss of appetite
Initially the discharge from the nose is usually clear and watery but becomes thicker and yellow or green as the cold progresses. On an average, children suffer more when affected with a common cold. Though the symptoms of head cold in children are the same as those in adults, they often develop complications, such as ear and sinus infections. Contact you physician immediately if your child starts experiencing:
Fever of 103° F (39.5° C) or higher
Chills or sweating
Difficulty in breathing
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Ear pain
Unusual sleepiness
Persistent crying
Severe headache
Persistent cough
According to a study conducted in Brain, Behavior and Immunity, common cold can affect attention and behavior of a person. This study was conducted on 189 men and women from U.K. The conclusions were drawn on the basis of the functioning of their brain before and after they got affected by head cold.
Head Cold Treatment
As mentioned before, there is no particular treatment for head cold. However, on the brighter side, the illness runs its course in about a week (usually) and is cured without medication. As antibiotics do not cure the cold, pain killers and certain home remedies may help relieve the symptoms. You may take a mild pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), for muscle ache, headache, and fever. Options to deal with nasal congestion are many, like decongestant nasal sprays, though they aren't advisable for children. A cough syrup may help to soothe an itchy throat. Apart from these, there are several OTC medications available, but as they are ineffective for treating the cause of the illness, it is better not to take them.
However, there are a number of other remedies and self-care measures you can take to ease the discomfort caused by head cold. Some of them are:
Drink plenty of fluids, so the mucous stays moist and clears out faster.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as both have a dehydrating effect.
Use a humidifier while sleeping.
Sleeping and breathing can be made easier by propping up one's head with pillows.
Try chewing on some vitamin C candies.
Chicken soup is always suggested as an effective remedy for cold. It is known to act as an anti-inflammatory agent. It increases movement of mucus and helps relieve congestion, which is an effect any hot liquid can have. So it is advisable to have soups and warm liquids at regular intervals for relief from head cold.
Salt water gargling will also help in relieving sore throat.
Inhaling steam works great for nasal congestion.
Symptoms of Head Cold
Though symptoms of head cold are mild, they may be irritating and discomforting. The symptoms may subside within 10 days on its own. The most common symptoms of a head cold are:
Sneezing
Runny nose
Nasal congestion
A stuffy nose
Mild fatigue
Pressure in the ears and sinuses
Itchy or sore throat
Low-grade fever (up to 102° F or 39° C)
Cough
Watery eyes
Muscle ache
Mild headache
Loss of appetite
Initially the discharge from the nose is usually clear and watery but becomes thicker and yellow or green as the cold progresses. On an average, children suffer more when affected with a common cold. Though the symptoms of head cold in children are the same as those in adults, they often develop complications, such as ear and sinus infections. Contact you physician immediately if your child starts experiencing:
Fever of 103° F (39.5° C) or higher
Chills or sweating
Difficulty in breathing
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Ear pain
Unusual sleepiness
Persistent crying
Severe headache
Persistent cough
According to a study conducted in Brain, Behavior and Immunity, common cold can affect attention and behavior of a person. This study was conducted on 189 men and women from U.K. The conclusions were drawn on the basis of the functioning of their brain before and after they got affected by head cold.
Head Cold Treatment
As mentioned before, there is no particular treatment for head cold. However, on the brighter side, the illness runs its course in about a week (usually) and is cured without medication. As antibiotics do not cure the cold, pain killers and certain home remedies may help relieve the symptoms. You may take a mild pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), for muscle ache, headache, and fever. Options to deal with nasal congestion are many, like decongestant nasal sprays, though they aren't advisable for children. A cough syrup may help to soothe an itchy throat. Apart from these, there are several OTC medications available, but as they are ineffective for treating the cause of the illness, it is better not to take them.
However, there are a number of other remedies and self-care measures you can take to ease the discomfort caused by head cold. Some of them are:
Drink plenty of fluids, so the mucous stays moist and clears out faster.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as both have a dehydrating effect.
Use a humidifier while sleeping.
Sleeping and breathing can be made easier by propping up one's head with pillows.
Try chewing on some vitamin C candies.
Chicken soup is always suggested as an effective remedy for cold. It is known to act as an anti-inflammatory agent. It increases movement of mucus and helps relieve congestion, which is an effect any hot liquid can have. So it is advisable to have soups and warm liquids at regular intervals for relief from head cold.
Salt water gargling will also help in relieving sore throat.
Inhaling steam works great for nasal congestion.
Stuffy Nose Remedies
Common cold is an ailment suffered by many. You can't breathe, you can't sleep and everything you say sounds so nasal, that you have to say it twice. One often experiences nasal congestion during a cold. Let's look at the effective stuffy nose remedies.
Common cold is an ailment suffered by many. You can't breathe, you can't sleep and everything you say sounds so nasal, that you have to say it twice. One often experiences nasal congestion during a cold. Let's look at the effective stuffy nose remedies.
Stuffy nose is a state of nasal congestion. It can be caused by
many factors. Allergies are one of the reasons for it. Allergies can be
caused by pollens, animals, dust, etc. When a person contracts an
allergy, chemicals like histamine are released by the body, which
results in nasal congestion.
If a person suffers from rhinitis, he/she experiences inflammation of nose and nasal membranes. This might also be accompanied by nasal polyps. A person can suffer from nasal congestion due to deformities formed in the nose and nasal cartilage.
But, a stuffy nose is mostly caused due to infection by common cold.
List of Remedies for Stuffy Nose
Blocked nose, nasal congestion or stuffy nose, whichever name you call it by, the condition is exasperating, to say the least. It drains your energy and leaves you helpless, with tissues as constant companions. Here are various remedies to get rid of stuffy nose, that will provide you with relief, when you need it the most.
Blow Your Nose Properly
blowing nose
Before you start using any remedies, here is a simple technique that will help you clear your stuffy nose. Blowing your nose properly can help you get rid of mucus, which is creating the block.
To blow the nose properly, with one hand, hold the tissue very close to one nostril and close the other nostril with the other hand. Then open your mouth and blow loudly. It is important to keep your mouth slightly open, so that the pressure on the ears is reduced. Now, repeat with the other nostril.
Steam Therapy with Decongestant Ointment
steam therapy
This one is my favorite; instant nasal congestion remedy. This stuffy nose remedy works well at night, when breathing becomes very difficult due to cold.
Boil water in a pot and place the pot on a table. Add 2 - 3 tablespoons of decongestant ointment in water and stir it a bit. Place your head above the pot. Cover your head and the pot with a towel and inhale the medicated vapors. Keep a box of tissues near you and repeat, if necessary.
Steam Therapy with Chamomile
steam chamomile
This is a variation of the above remedy. Instead of using a decongestant ointment, chamomile is used for this herbal remedy for stuffy nose.
Boil some water in a pot. Use chamomile in any form like tea bags, powder, or dried herbs. Add chamomile to the pot and cover with a lid for 10 minutes. Place the pot on a table, remove the lid and inhale the vapors, with a towel covering your head.
Eucalyptus Oil
eucalyptus oil
If you are at your workplace or going out and have a stuffy nose, then sprinkle few drops of eucalyptus oil on a tissue and carry it with you. Whenever you feel the nose is blocked, keep sniffing the tissue for instant relief from the congestion.
You can add few drops of eucalyptus oil on your pillow cover. The smell will provide relief from stuffy nose while you sleep. This remedy works well with tea tree oil and lavender oil too, but eucalyptus is the best.
Decongestant Ointment
ointment
This is a good remedy which you can use before going to bed. Take a decongestant ointment like Tiger Balm or Vicks and apply it a bit on your nose, forehead, and throat. If you have a bad cold then apply it on your chest and back, and go to sleep.
This remedy too will provide instant relief and aid in sleeping. You can also prop yourself on some pillows and then sleep to keep your head elevated. This will prevent further blocking of the nose.
Sniffing Onion
onion
Apart from cooking, onions are useful in stuffy nose situations too. They perform the same action that decongestants do. Sniffing an onion will secrete a liquid that cleans the nose.
Cut an onion and sniff it as deeply as possible. This natural remedy will unblock your nose and allow you to breathe freely.
Chicken Soup
chicken-soup
Chicken soup for the cold! Yes, chicken soup has medicinal properties. Prepare chicken soup with garlic and sprinkle some pepper on it. You can also add a bit of lemon juice to the soup.
Pepper and garlic have been used traditionally, to cure many respiratory problems. Chicken combined with pepper and garlic is one tasty and best remedy for stuffy nose.
Hot Shower
hot shower
This is one instant remedy. Take a hot shower and keep inhaling the warm steam till you feel better. This will not only unblock your nose, but also soothe your nerves and make you more relaxed.
This remedy is especially beneficial, if you try it before going to bed. A bit of caution; if you have fever, it is not a good idea to opt for this remedy.
Spicy Food
spicy-food
This remedy is for the brave, and for long-time sufferers of stuffy nose in search of an instant remedy. Eating spicy food is an instant natural remedy. Eat few hot chilly peppers and your nose will start running immediately.
You can also opt for some Tabasco sauce. However, don't go overboard with the hot sauce or the chilly peppers, as they can cause stomach upset.
Nasal Sprays
nasal spray
Nasal sprays are also very effective. There are many good ones available over-the-counter. To prepare a nasal spray for stuffy nose, use salt and water. Take a cup of water and ¼ teaspoon of salt, in a pot and boil. Let this mixture cool. Fill a nasal spray bottle with this liquid and put 7 drops in each of the nostrils.
This will help you get rid of the stuffy nose. But it's advisable to be careful while using over-the-counter nasal sprays, as they can be habit-forming.
Ginger Tea
ginger tea
Ginger is used to flavor many recipes. But, it is also an excellent herb which can cure many ailments. It has antibiotic properties which help to get rid of infections. For a herbal stuffy nose remedy, sip ginger tea and inhale the steam from the same.
This will clear your nose and throat, allowing easy breathing. In case you have a sore throat as well, crush a piece of ginger , add a spoon of honey to it, and chew this mix slowly. It will soothe the throat.
Homeopathy Remedies
homeopathy
Homeopathy considers all the symptoms of the disease, before the prescription of a medicine. Homeopathic remedy for stuffy nose is quite beneficial. If you have a yellow-thick discharge of mucus, and the condition gets better when outside your house, take Pulsatilla. To take Pulsatilla, warm the lotion, fill a syringe and pour the lotion into the nose. This intake of Pulsatilla can be repeated 4 - 5 times in a day. Take Kali bichromicum, if you have a sticky, whitish mucus in your nose and throat, and you are at a later stage of the cold. The dosage for Kali bichromicum is 4 drops, 3 times a day, and in the form of pills, 2 pills, 3 times a day. If you have allergies, and catch a cold after you get wet or with change in the weather, take Dulcamara. The dosage for Dulcamara is 10 drops orally, 3 times a day. Whenever you buy a homeopathy medicine, always read the instructions on the label, as the dosage differs according to acute and chronic conditions.
Neti Pot
nasal irrigation
Using a neti pot helps unblock a stuffy nose. Neti pots are available with most chemists and used for nasal irrigation. This technique started in ancient India and is a great technique to promote nasal health.
It is a pot with a handle on one side and a spout on the other side. It uses saline water for nasal irrigation to clear mucus. Read the label on the box to follow the instructions.
Breathing Strips
breathing-strips
Using breathing strips, helps unblock a stuffy nose, and it is very easy to use them. Stick one strip across the bridge of the nose and you will be relieved from congestion within minutes. These nasal strips also help prevent snoring, so are good to be used at night.
Make sure you position the strip properly before going to bed. Also, avoid putting moisturizer on the nose if you want to use these strips. Moisturizing the skin will make it slippery and the strip might not stick properly.
OTC Anti-Allergic Pills
pills
You might be suffering from stuffy nose also due to some allergy. Some nasal allergy medications are also available over-the-counter, like antihistamines and decongestants. Taking these pills can help you avoid allergic reactions like blocking of nose.
Follow the recommended dosage and don't take too many pills. Also, figuring out the allergen and staying away from it will help.
Humidifier
humidifier
Dry air can irritate your sinuses, and installing a room humidifier can help greatly. However, make sure you buy a quality humidifier and keep it free of fungus and dust, otherwise this will only aggravate your nasal passages.
Always use distilled water in the humidifier to keep your room free of any dust or fungus.
Exercise
humidifier
Working out for a short time can actually help to unblock the nose. Here is how it works - it releases adrenaline. This narrows the swollen blood vessels in your nose.
However, if you are too tired to work out, then try other simpler remedies like steam, saline spray, ointment, etc.
Note: If you have tried some of these remedies and are still suffering from a stuffy nose, consult a doctor. Also, if you experience a greenish mucus discharge, fever, facial pain and have trouble sleeping, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
Common cold is so common, that it does not fall in the category of serious diseases. But this nasty disease, is worse than serious diseases, as it renders you unable to sleep, eat or concentrate. Some of the common cold symptoms experienced are headache, sneezing and stuffy nose. A simple home remedy for the common cold, can provide you relief. Though, it just takes its course of seven days to abate from your system.
If a person suffers from rhinitis, he/she experiences inflammation of nose and nasal membranes. This might also be accompanied by nasal polyps. A person can suffer from nasal congestion due to deformities formed in the nose and nasal cartilage.
But, a stuffy nose is mostly caused due to infection by common cold.
List of Remedies for Stuffy Nose
Blocked nose, nasal congestion or stuffy nose, whichever name you call it by, the condition is exasperating, to say the least. It drains your energy and leaves you helpless, with tissues as constant companions. Here are various remedies to get rid of stuffy nose, that will provide you with relief, when you need it the most.
Blow Your Nose Properly
blowing nose
Before you start using any remedies, here is a simple technique that will help you clear your stuffy nose. Blowing your nose properly can help you get rid of mucus, which is creating the block.
To blow the nose properly, with one hand, hold the tissue very close to one nostril and close the other nostril with the other hand. Then open your mouth and blow loudly. It is important to keep your mouth slightly open, so that the pressure on the ears is reduced. Now, repeat with the other nostril.
Steam Therapy with Decongestant Ointment
steam therapy
This one is my favorite; instant nasal congestion remedy. This stuffy nose remedy works well at night, when breathing becomes very difficult due to cold.
Boil water in a pot and place the pot on a table. Add 2 - 3 tablespoons of decongestant ointment in water and stir it a bit. Place your head above the pot. Cover your head and the pot with a towel and inhale the medicated vapors. Keep a box of tissues near you and repeat, if necessary.
Steam Therapy with Chamomile
steam chamomile
This is a variation of the above remedy. Instead of using a decongestant ointment, chamomile is used for this herbal remedy for stuffy nose.
Boil some water in a pot. Use chamomile in any form like tea bags, powder, or dried herbs. Add chamomile to the pot and cover with a lid for 10 minutes. Place the pot on a table, remove the lid and inhale the vapors, with a towel covering your head.
Eucalyptus Oil
eucalyptus oil
If you are at your workplace or going out and have a stuffy nose, then sprinkle few drops of eucalyptus oil on a tissue and carry it with you. Whenever you feel the nose is blocked, keep sniffing the tissue for instant relief from the congestion.
You can add few drops of eucalyptus oil on your pillow cover. The smell will provide relief from stuffy nose while you sleep. This remedy works well with tea tree oil and lavender oil too, but eucalyptus is the best.
Decongestant Ointment
ointment
This is a good remedy which you can use before going to bed. Take a decongestant ointment like Tiger Balm or Vicks and apply it a bit on your nose, forehead, and throat. If you have a bad cold then apply it on your chest and back, and go to sleep.
This remedy too will provide instant relief and aid in sleeping. You can also prop yourself on some pillows and then sleep to keep your head elevated. This will prevent further blocking of the nose.
Sniffing Onion
onion
Apart from cooking, onions are useful in stuffy nose situations too. They perform the same action that decongestants do. Sniffing an onion will secrete a liquid that cleans the nose.
Cut an onion and sniff it as deeply as possible. This natural remedy will unblock your nose and allow you to breathe freely.
Chicken Soup
chicken-soup
Chicken soup for the cold! Yes, chicken soup has medicinal properties. Prepare chicken soup with garlic and sprinkle some pepper on it. You can also add a bit of lemon juice to the soup.
Pepper and garlic have been used traditionally, to cure many respiratory problems. Chicken combined with pepper and garlic is one tasty and best remedy for stuffy nose.
Hot Shower
hot shower
This is one instant remedy. Take a hot shower and keep inhaling the warm steam till you feel better. This will not only unblock your nose, but also soothe your nerves and make you more relaxed.
This remedy is especially beneficial, if you try it before going to bed. A bit of caution; if you have fever, it is not a good idea to opt for this remedy.
Spicy Food
spicy-food
This remedy is for the brave, and for long-time sufferers of stuffy nose in search of an instant remedy. Eating spicy food is an instant natural remedy. Eat few hot chilly peppers and your nose will start running immediately.
You can also opt for some Tabasco sauce. However, don't go overboard with the hot sauce or the chilly peppers, as they can cause stomach upset.
Nasal Sprays
nasal spray
Nasal sprays are also very effective. There are many good ones available over-the-counter. To prepare a nasal spray for stuffy nose, use salt and water. Take a cup of water and ¼ teaspoon of salt, in a pot and boil. Let this mixture cool. Fill a nasal spray bottle with this liquid and put 7 drops in each of the nostrils.
This will help you get rid of the stuffy nose. But it's advisable to be careful while using over-the-counter nasal sprays, as they can be habit-forming.
Ginger Tea
ginger tea
Ginger is used to flavor many recipes. But, it is also an excellent herb which can cure many ailments. It has antibiotic properties which help to get rid of infections. For a herbal stuffy nose remedy, sip ginger tea and inhale the steam from the same.
This will clear your nose and throat, allowing easy breathing. In case you have a sore throat as well, crush a piece of ginger , add a spoon of honey to it, and chew this mix slowly. It will soothe the throat.
Homeopathy Remedies
homeopathy
Homeopathy considers all the symptoms of the disease, before the prescription of a medicine. Homeopathic remedy for stuffy nose is quite beneficial. If you have a yellow-thick discharge of mucus, and the condition gets better when outside your house, take Pulsatilla. To take Pulsatilla, warm the lotion, fill a syringe and pour the lotion into the nose. This intake of Pulsatilla can be repeated 4 - 5 times in a day. Take Kali bichromicum, if you have a sticky, whitish mucus in your nose and throat, and you are at a later stage of the cold. The dosage for Kali bichromicum is 4 drops, 3 times a day, and in the form of pills, 2 pills, 3 times a day. If you have allergies, and catch a cold after you get wet or with change in the weather, take Dulcamara. The dosage for Dulcamara is 10 drops orally, 3 times a day. Whenever you buy a homeopathy medicine, always read the instructions on the label, as the dosage differs according to acute and chronic conditions.
Neti Pot
nasal irrigation
Using a neti pot helps unblock a stuffy nose. Neti pots are available with most chemists and used for nasal irrigation. This technique started in ancient India and is a great technique to promote nasal health.
It is a pot with a handle on one side and a spout on the other side. It uses saline water for nasal irrigation to clear mucus. Read the label on the box to follow the instructions.
Breathing Strips
breathing-strips
Using breathing strips, helps unblock a stuffy nose, and it is very easy to use them. Stick one strip across the bridge of the nose and you will be relieved from congestion within minutes. These nasal strips also help prevent snoring, so are good to be used at night.
Make sure you position the strip properly before going to bed. Also, avoid putting moisturizer on the nose if you want to use these strips. Moisturizing the skin will make it slippery and the strip might not stick properly.
OTC Anti-Allergic Pills
pills
You might be suffering from stuffy nose also due to some allergy. Some nasal allergy medications are also available over-the-counter, like antihistamines and decongestants. Taking these pills can help you avoid allergic reactions like blocking of nose.
Follow the recommended dosage and don't take too many pills. Also, figuring out the allergen and staying away from it will help.
Humidifier
humidifier
Dry air can irritate your sinuses, and installing a room humidifier can help greatly. However, make sure you buy a quality humidifier and keep it free of fungus and dust, otherwise this will only aggravate your nasal passages.
Always use distilled water in the humidifier to keep your room free of any dust or fungus.
Exercise
humidifier
Working out for a short time can actually help to unblock the nose. Here is how it works - it releases adrenaline. This narrows the swollen blood vessels in your nose.
However, if you are too tired to work out, then try other simpler remedies like steam, saline spray, ointment, etc.
Note: If you have tried some of these remedies and are still suffering from a stuffy nose, consult a doctor. Also, if you experience a greenish mucus discharge, fever, facial pain and have trouble sleeping, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
Common cold is so common, that it does not fall in the category of serious diseases. But this nasty disease, is worse than serious diseases, as it renders you unable to sleep, eat or concentrate. Some of the common cold symptoms experienced are headache, sneezing and stuffy nose. A simple home remedy for the common cold, can provide you relief. Though, it just takes its course of seven days to abate from your system.
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