Ways to treat cold flu

With no cure in sight for the cold or the flu , over-
the-counter treatments can at best bring symptom
relief or shorten the duration of those symptoms.
Or you can take the natural approach. WebMD
explores some home remedies that may help you
feel better along the way.
No. 1: Blow Your Nose Often -- and the
Right Way
It's important to blow your nose regularly when you
have a cold rather than sniffling mucus back into
your head. But when you blow hard, pressure can
cause an earache . The best way to blow your
nose: Press a finger over one nostril while you
blow gently to clear the other. Wash your hands
after blowing your nose.
No. 2: Stay Rested
Resting when you first come down with a cold or
the flu helps your body direct its energy
toward the immune battle. This battle taxes the
body. So give it a little help by lying down under a
blanket.
No. 3: Gargle
Gargling can moisten a sore throat and bring
temporary relief. Try a teaspoon of salt dissolved
in warm water, four times daily. To reduce the
tickle in your throat, try an astringent gargle -- such
as tea that contains tannin -- to tighten the
membranes. Or, steep one tablespoon of lemon
juice in two cups of hot water and mix in one
teaspoon of honey. Let the mixture cool to room
temperature before gargling. Honey should never
be given to children under age 1.
No. 4: Drink Hot Liquids
Warm liquids help relieve nasal congestion, help
prevent dehydration , and soothe the uncomfortably
inflamed membranes that line your nose and
throat.
No. 5: Take a Steamy Shower
Steamy showers moisturize your nasal passages
and relax you. If you're dizzy from the flu , run a
steamy shower while you sit on a chair nearby and
take a sponge bath.
CONTINUED
No. 6: Apply Hot or Cold Packs Around
Your Congested Sinuses
Either temperature may help you feel more
comfortable. You can buy reusable hot or cold
packs at a drugstore. Or make your own. Take a
damp washcloth and heat it for 20 seconds at a
time in a microwave (test the temperature first to
make sure it's not too hot). Or take a small bag of
frozen peas to use as a cold pack.
No. 7: Sleep With an Extra Pillow Under
Your Head
This will help with the drainage of nasal passages.
If the angle is too awkward, try placing the pillows
between the mattress and the box springs to
create a more gradual slope.
No. 8: Don't Fly Unless Necessary
There's no point adding stress to your already
stressed-out upper respiratory system , and that's
what the change in air pressure will do. Flying with
cold or flu congestion can hurt your eardrums as
a result of pressure changes during takeoff and
landing. If you must fly, ask your doctor about
using a decongestant and carry a nasal spray with
you to use just before takeoff and landing. Chewing
gum and swallowing frequently can also help
relieve pressure.
Remember, serious conditions can masquerade as
the common cold and a mild infection can
evolve into something more serious. If you have
severe symptoms or are feeling sicker with each
passing day or must travel, see a doctor.
WebMD Medical Reference
Reviewed by Carol DerSarkissian on November 16,
2017