If you're experiencing symptoms of a sore throat, a headache, a cough, chest congestion and a stuffy nose, you may be suffering from the common cold, according to MayoClinic.com in the article "Common Cold." In some cases, mucus may migrate to the chest, causing congestion and coughing. There is no cure for the common cold, but if your doctor approves, you can use home remedies and over-the-counter products to alleviate your symptoms.
Humidifier
Using a humidifier may help alleviate congestion, according to the University of Pennsylvania Health System. A humidifier releases water vapor into the air, which is absorbed into the nasal passages and the lungs. Running a humidifier at night may help loosen mucus and make breathing easier while you sleep. Humidifiers may harbor bacteria and fungus if they are not cleaned correctly, notes MayoClinic.com. Clean your humidifier several times a week to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria.
Fluids
In the book "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies," Keith W. Sehnert, M.D., a physician with Trinity Health Care in Minneapolis, Minnesota recommends drinking more fluids than usual while you are suffering from the common cold. Drinking 6 to 8 glasses of liquids like tea, water and juice will help loosen mucus and help it move through your body more quickly. Stay away from sugary drinks like soda and drinks that are dehydrating, like alcohol and coffee.
Chicken Soup
Sipping chicken soup when you're sick is a time-honored tradition, and it may actually help reduce cold symptoms and allow the cold to move more quickly through your body. Inhale the steam from the soup as you eat it. Not only will eating chicken soup help you stay hydrated, but it may also help relieve congestion by clearing mucus. Additionally, chicken soup may act as an inflammatory, which may make it easier for you to breathe.
References
- "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies"; Deborah Tcak; 1997
- Mayo Clinic: Common Cold
- Univeristy of Pennsylvania Health System: Head and Chest Colds
- Mayo Clinic: Cold Remedies: What Works, What Doesn't, What Can't Hurt
