Treatments how to get rid of a cold and when you should visit

2024-12-04 08:38:00, Shëndeti CNA

There is still no cure for the common cold. And yet, you can try some supplements and take good care of yourself in order to get over this unwanted condition as soon as possible.

You will find a wide range of products at the drugstore that claim to shorten the duration of a cold, so you may feel confused about what to choose.

Vitamin C

Taking a vitamin C supplement, while it may not prevent a cold, can shorten the duration of a cold.

Some studies show that taking this vitamin (1 to 2 grams per day) reduced the duration and severity of colds.

The recommended daily dose of vitamin C is 90 milligrams for men and 75 mg for non-pregnant women. Doses at the upper limit (2000 mg) may cause some side effects.

ZINC

The same conclusion was also found for zinc, which can help you get over a cold faster.

If you are taking antibiotics, penicillamine (Cuprimine) for arthritis, or certain diuretics, talk to your doctor before taking zinc. The combination may reduce the effectiveness of your medications or zinc.

Beet juice

Because beetroot juice is high in dietary nitrate, it increases the body's production of nitric oxide, which can help protect against respiratory infections.

If you are prone to kidney stones, be careful with beets, which contain oxalates. Because they can lead to the formation of kidney stones.

Probiotic drinks

Although studies on probiotics and colds are limited, one study AgroWeb.org referenced suggests that consuming a probiotic drink containing Lactobacillus, L. casei 431, can reduce the duration of a cold. And this especially in relation to respiratory symptoms.

Probiotic bacteria vary from product to product, so check the label to know which one you're buying.

Rest

Although you can try and boost your immune system with exercise, it's probably best to take it easy for a few days and rest until your symptoms go away.

Honey

If you or your child have trouble sleeping, or have a sore throat, try honey to beat a cold. It remains one of the best ways to treat cold symptoms.

Non-prescription drugs

If cold symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and headache are bothersome, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can treat the symptoms. But if the viral infection lasts, consult your doctor.

Consume plenty of fluids

Hot tea, water, chicken soup, and other liquids will keep you hydrated, especially if you have a fever.

Avoid caffeine and alcohol because they can dehydrate you and disrupt the sleep and rest you need for recovery.

When to go to the doctor?

Colds that do not go away quickly can cause other illnesses such as pneumonia, lung infections, ear infections, and sinus infections.

See a doctor if:

your symptoms last more than 10 days

you have a fever above 38.5°C

your sinuses hurt

Your cough starts to sound like a whistling sound

feel pain in your chest

you have breathing problems./Agroweb