Info about Colds
Colds
The average common cold lasts one week. If you treat it, it will only last seven days, they say.
What they mean by this is that there is no cure for the common cold, and that’s still by and large true. A cold can’t be cured, but it certainly can be curtailed, eased and shortened.
• Vitamin C Works!
Many good studies have shown that increasing vitamin C can cut the time of your cold in half. People with colds in study groups were given a 500 mg cold tablet four times a day the result among many of them was three to four days less of their cold. So now we can safely say: the average cold lasts one week; but if you take four vitamins C tabs a day. it may last only three or four days.
• The Herb Echinacea
Studies in Germany have backed up the evidence that an herb called enchinacea is a mild immune-system stimulant capable of fending off colds. You can find this stuff in health food stores. Read the label carefully to make sure you’re getting the real thing. What you want is Echinacea purpurea, E. angustifolia, or E. pallida. And keep in mind that echinacea is best used intermittently; its effect on the body seems to fade after eight continuous weeks.
• The Zinc Link
Many people -- and some scienttfic evidence shows -- that zinc can stop a cold in its tracks. In some cases, people with colds who were given zinc saw their symtoms clear up in just hours! It really happens. The problem, however, is that the effect is somewhat rare. and may not work for you. You have nothing but the price of a box of zinc lozenges to loose if you want to try this remedy on your cold.
• Use Antihistamines
Your body naturually produces something called histamines. This is an important body chemical, but during a cold, they act up too much and produce congestion, sneezing and runny noses. Taking over-the-counter antihistamines will, therefore, provide relief from these symptoms.
Unfortunately, an annoying side effect of antihistamiries is drowsiness. That may be okay at bedtime, but it’s a nuisance in the daytime. To some people, it is even hazardous. These drugs are not recommended for daytime use for people who may be driving an automobile or operating other equipment. The first few doses cause the most sleepiness: subsequent doses are usually less trouble-some.
The most common antihistamines on the shelf today are Benadryl, Chlor Trimeton, Dimetane, Hismanal, Nolahist, PBZ, Polaramine, Seldane, Tavist, and Teldrin.
• Rest is Vital
When the scratchy throat and snuffly nose strikes, hit the rack! Your body needs rest to help fight the cold viruses, and not slowing down may make your bug much worse. You could even end up with bronchitis or pneumonia under the right circumstances.
• Liquids
Drink lots of liquids, either hot or cold. Citrus juices can add fluids and vitamin C to your body. and cold liquids like water can feel very good on a sore throat. Hot liquids can also fell great, and they have the added benefit of helping congestion problems.
• Yes, Chicken Soup Does Work
Grandma was right. One of the very best hot liquids you can drink is hot chicken soup. Scientists don’t know why, but something in chicken soup is very valuable for opening nasal passages and clearing congestion. As for other foods, do your body a favor and eater lighter foods like fruits and vegetables. Avoid so much fatty meats and dairy products. Your body is already working under the strain of a viral infection, so why make it work harder trying to break up hard to digest foods?
• Smoking is out
If you smoke, stop it—at least until you’ve gotten over your cold. Cigarette smoke makes a sore throat worse and interferes with the lungs’ attempts to clear out viruses.
• Take Aspirin but Watch out for Reye’s
When you feel achy, take aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen. However, remember not to give aspirin to anyone under 18 years of age. Aspirin in children may cause a very serious disease known as Reye’s syndrome.
• Steam Heat
When the congestion get to be unbearable, breathe some steam from a hot pan on the stove, or take a long hot bath or shower. Each of these can be very relaxing and puts moisture in your sinuses.
• When to Get Help
It takes you more than a couple of weeks to get over a cold, or your bug seems worse no matter what you do, make an appointment to see your doctor. You may have a more serious problem than the “common” cold, which only a doctor can help cure.