How to get rid of a cold

A cold is a discharge of mucus, which can be thick or thin and can become infected. A cold is a symptom of an illness or infection. If the cold is chronic, it may be a sign of an allergy. The best way to get rid of a cold is to understand its underlying cause.

The conventional pharmacological treatment is decongestants that should only be used in the short term. There are non-drug cold remedies that are safer for adults and children. These include homeopathic, home and natural remedies. They can be helpful in relieving symptoms of a runny nose, nasal congestion, or sinus inflammation.

The air can be very dry in winter. Make sure to increase the humidity level at home or in the office. This will help keep mucus thin so it can drain out of your nasal passages, thus preventing sinus headaches. A small humidifier works well when you don’t have a full humidifier. Alternatively, boil some water to add moisture to the air. If the cold attack is particularly bad, try running the hot water in the bathroom and sitting in the steam with the bathroom door closed. This can provide immediate relief.

Using saline drops or sprays can effectively help relieve cold symptoms by hydrating the nasal passages. Another method of keeping the mucous membranes clean is by nasal irrigation. Similar to saline drops, nasal irrigation uses a warm saline solution that is poured into the nasal cavities to rinse them and provide hydration. Regular cleaning helps keep your sinuses and nasal passages clean.

When the cold is particularly thick and blocks the nasal passages or causes pain, a warm compress can be applied to the face. Heat a damp cloth and place on the face, on the nose and cheeks. Apply as many times as necessary. This will help loosen the thick phlegm that is stuck in the hallways. Alternatively, use a facial steamer or steam inhaler. The steam heats the air in the nasal passages, thus loosening the mucus and preventing inflammation.

If your cold is caused by allergies like dust, pollen, mold, smoke, or animal dander, a room-sized air filter can help filter the air. This will remove the irritant and help clear the cold more quickly.

Drink lots of water to keep the mucus loose and the membranes moist. Avoid caffeinated beverages, as caffeine tends to further restrict your membranes.

Try to avoid medicated nasal sprays, as they can cause excessive dryness. Sprays only provide temporary relief and can become a habit. There can be long-term adverse effects when using medications to dry out the sinuses. Once the effect of the medicine wears off, the sinuses may become too dry or swollen.

If you suffer from a chronic cold, you should seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause. If left untreated, a cold can lead to more serious problems.