The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory system. Like the name suggests, it is common to catch, and the viruses that infect people are Coronaviruses or Rhinoviruses. Because there are over 200 viruses that swim in the air, it is difficult for the immune system to build up a resistance to them. This is why colds are recurring and common. Anyone can catch a cold, but children are more susceptible because their immune systems aren’t as strong and they are constantly in school or group environments, where viruses thrive.
Symptoms of the Common Cold
Symptoms of a common cold will reveal themselves when the body reacts to a virus. Certain chemicals are released, which makes the blood vessels leak and the mucus glands work extra hard. The most common symptoms are listed below.
- Sore Throat
- Runny Nose
- Coughing
- Mild Fever
- Sneezing
- Mild Headache
- Stuffy Nose
- Hoarse Voice
- Feeling Tired
Remedies to Fight the Common Cold
#1: Eat Healthy Foods
When infected with the common cold, it is important to eat light, plant-based foods. Eating heavy foods like meat, dairy, sugar, salt, and alcohol makes the digestive system work extra hard. You want the body to focus on fighting the infection, so eat fresh fruits and vegetables, raw nuts and seeds, and whole grains like barley or buckwheat.
#2: Stay Hydrated
Drink lots of fluids. Staying hydrated is key when you have a cold because your body is using more moisture to produce mucus. Drink lots of water (eight-ten 8oz glasses a day is recommended), herbal tea, and ginger tea, which you can make by pouring hot water over fresh ginger root slices. Adding a little raw, organic honey to your teas or hot water can also be beneficial because it has antioxidants, anti-bacterial properties, and lots of vitamin C.
#3: Use a Neti Pot
You can use a Neti Pot to help cleanse the sinuses. Fill it with a warm saline solution to help relieve sinus congestion.
#4: Gargle With Salt Water
Gargling with salt water can help soothe a sore throat. Mix a teaspoon or so of salt in a small glass of warm water and stir. Take sips of the salt water and, without swallowing, gargle it in the back of your throat. This is not the cure for the cold, but it provides relief from an itchy throat.
#5: Get Some Sleep
Get lots of rest and sleep because your body needs the relaxation to fight off germs. People who rest more when they have colds will recover more quickly than people who keep pushing their bodies. The cold will only last longer if you don’t take the time to rest.
