Surviving Cold and Flu Season: ENT-Approved Remedies and Tips

Cold and flu season is here, and no one is immune to the viruses that cause them. With the holiday season approaching, the risk of getting sick is even higher. Fortunately, there are several remedies and tips to help you survive this season on top of your health.

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Surviving the Cold and Flu: Effective Tips and Remedies

Here are some proven tips and remedies to help you get through the cold and flu season:

1. Stay hydrated

You should always keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids – but it is an especially important reminder for when you are sick. Drinking plenty of fluids will help your body recover when you’re sick. Additionally, it will help replenish lost fluids due to a runny nose, vomiting, or sweating – all common when someone is sick.

Keeping your body hydrated can also break up nasal congestion and moisten the nose and throat.

Avoid soda and coffee as they can often be dehydrating.

2. Gargle with salt water

You can find relief for your sore throat by gargling with salt water. This can moisten and reduce throat swelling and irritation, providing temporary relief.

Do this by mixing one teaspoon of salt per one cup of warm water. Do this four times a day until you start feeling better.

3. Treat the stuffiness

Sinus rinses, nasal irrigation, and nasal sprays are effective tools that can help combat congestion and stuffiness. They might not be a permanent cure for congestion and stuffiness but they can surely provide some long-awaited relief and comfort.

4. Opt for hot liquids

Staying hydrated is essential for recovering from the common cold or flu. In addition to water, hot liquids like tea or chicken soup can be especially soothing. These not only help prevent dehydration but also loosen mucus, easing nasal congestion and soothing throat irritation.

5. Take a steamy shower

The warmth and steam from a steamy bath or shower can be an effective decongestant. It helps moisturize dry and irritated nasal passages and helps you find relief from congestion and stuffiness.

If you feel weak or dizzy from the flu, opt to place a chair in the bathroom so you can take a shower while seated.

6. Ensure proper indoor humidity

The colder air of the winter months means dry air. Dry air can be very irritating to the nasal passages and when they are irritated, they are more prone to viruses and inflammation. When the air feels too dry, try using a humidifier to introduce some moisture into the air.

7. Get enough sleep and rest

Make sure you get enough sleep and rest so your body can recharge. Aim for eight to ten hours of sleep every night. Take a break from engaging in strenuous activities like heavy exercise.

Additionally, elevate your head by propping an extra pillow when you sleep. This provides some relief from nasal congestion and helps you breathe better as you sleep.

8. Don’t forget vitamin C

Adding vitamin C to your diet helps to boost and support your immune system. Vitamin C supplements and citrus fruits are great sources of the vitamin. You can also add fresh lemon juice to your hot tea or warm water. This provides relief when you’re sick.

9. Don’t spread the virus around

It’s gift-giving season but don’t spread the cold or flu season around.

Cover your mouth and nose with a clean tissue when you cough or sneeze and immediately dispose of the tissue. Practice frequent and proper handwashing. If it isn’t necessary to go out, it’s better to stay home. This lets your body rest and at the same time prevent the further spread of the virus.

10. Turn to topical ointments

Topical ointments like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and VapoRub can provide relief from congestion and coughing, especially at night as you try to sleep. They can open up breathing passages and even soothe the dry and irritated skin of your nose. It’s important that you only apply these ointments outside and never inside your nose.

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Cold and Flu Season? No Worries With Capitol Breathe Free!

As we slowly make our way to the holiday season, we become more at risk of catching and spreading the cold and flu virus. In our excitement to reunite with friends and family we haven’t seen in a while, we often forget to take necessary precautions.

Worried about the looming cold and flu season? Book an appointment with Capitol Breathe Free to find out how you can stay healthy for the rest of the year!