Catching a cold is never fun, and unfortunately, there’s no magic cure. Even over-the-counter medicines often don’t seem to make much difference. But even if you can’t completely avoid or quickly cure a cold, there are definitely ways to make yourself feel a bit better. Here are ten tips to help ease those annoying cold symptoms:
1. **Stay Hydrated**
Drinking lots of water can help thin the mucus that’s causing congestion, making it easier to breathe. Plus, staying hydrated is crucial when you’re battling a cold.
2. **Keep Your Nasal Passages Clear**
Blowing your nose constantly can irritate it, and it might not even be all that effective since your sinuses could be inflamed. Instead, try a sinus rinse with saline solution to soothe the inflammation and clear out your nasal passages.
3. **Get Extra Sleep**
When you have a cold, your body needs more rest to heal. Try to get more sleep than usual, and don’t hesitate to turn in early and sleep a bit longer.
4. **Use Peppermint Oil**
Peppermint oil can be a great relief for sinus congestion. You can rub a few drops on your feet to help with fever, on your temples for a headache, or put a drop on your tongue and inhale deeply to clear your sinuses.
5. **Prop Up Your Head**
If your cold feels worse in the morning, it might be because mucus is settling in your nasal cavity while you sleep. Use extra pillows to prop up your head or try sleeping in a recliner to keep the mucus from pooling.
6. **Utilize a Vaporizer**
A good vaporizer with herbs like mint or eucalyptus can help you breathe easier. The soothing vapors can loosen mucus and ease a sore throat.
7. **Try a Hot Toddy**
Mixing honey, lemon, tea, and a bit of bourbon can create a soothing drink known as a hot toddy. It has been a traditional cold remedy since the 1700s, offering some comfort despite the lack of scientific backing.
8. **Eat Chicken Soup**
Chicken soup is a classic remedy for colds, and while science doesn’t definitively prove its effectiveness, many believe it’s more beneficial than most cold medicines.
9. **Use Soft Tissues and Petroleum Jelly**
To prevent your nose from getting raw from constant blowing, use soft tissues. After blowing your nose, apply some petroleum jelly around it to soothe the skin.
10. **Exercise**
Light exercise might actually help you feel better by opening up your sinuses and getting your blood pumping. While there’s no solid evidence, some studies suggest it won’t hurt your lungs and may even boost your metabolism.
Implementing these steps won’t cure your cold, but they can definitely help you feel more comfortable while your body fights off the virus.