Every year there are over one billion cases of the common cold in the United States. About 200 different viruses can cause colds, with rhinoviruses and coronaviruses being responsible for the majority of cases. Annually, children suffer about six to 10 colds, while adults have about two to four colds, according to the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases or NIAID. Prevention is your best defense. If you’re already stricken with the bug, there are a few remedies that will ease your discomfort.
Rest
Trying to stick to your usual routine when you have a cold will only make it worse. A few days of rest strengthens your immune system and helps your body to recover from the viral invasion. On the other hand, when you don’t get enough sleep, you’re more prone to catching cold, according to a study conducted at Carnegie Mellon University.
Fluids
Drinking more clear fluids such as water, juice and soups help to stave off dehydration. Sneezing and blowing your nose can leave it dehydrated, and coughing can irritate your throat. Fluids help to keep the linings in your nose and throat moist and loosen mucus. Warm or hot liquids may relieve congestion.
Drops and Humidifier
Saline nasal drops loosen mucus and also keep your nasal lining moist. A cool mist humidifier moistens the air so your nasal passages and throat also stay moist. Avoid using a hot air humidifier. While steam may provide short-term relief, the NIAID points out that most health experts find it’s ineffective for treating the common cold.
Lozenges
Sucking on a cold lozenge soothes throats irritated by coughing and dehydration. It will also help to unplug your ears if they’re congested. Some lozenges contain nutrients or minerals such as vitamin C and zinc that are promoted for cold relief. While vitamin C and zinc cannot prevent a cold, they may be able to shorten the duration if taken at the first sign of illness.
Elderberry
Used in folk medicine for centuries, the black elder plant is rich in antiviral phytochemicals or antioxidants. Phytochemicals bolster your immune system so it’s better able to fight off the common cold. Elderberry is sold in Europe as a cold and flu remedy. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC, it also reduces swelling in mucus membranes, which relieves nasal congestion caused by colds. This herbal remedy is available as a capsule, lozenge, liquid, syrup or tincture. The UMMC points out that more human studies are needed to prove its effectiveness.
The NIAID recommends seeing a doctor if your cold lasts for longer than 14 days, or if you have a fever over 102 degrees Fahrenheit, facial pain or swollen glands.
