8 Natural Tips To Treat The Common Cold

You can spend money going to the Doctor for cold symptoms, just to have him tell you what you already know. There's over the counter treatments that can bring symptom relief, and possibly shorten the length of your cold; but do they work any better than these all natural approaches? You be the judge. Here are 8 natural remedy tips from WEBMD that may help you feel better along the way.

BLOW YOUR NOSE THE RIGHT WAY; AND OFTEN

I didn't know there was a right and wrong way to blow your nose, but alas; I learned something new today. It's important to blow your nose regularly when you have a cold, rather than sniffling mucus back into your head. But be careful! Don't blow too hard or you could cause an earache from all the pressure. The best way to blow your nose is to press a finger over one nostril while blowing the other side gently. Then make sure to wash your hands.

GET LOTS OF REST

Resting when you first come down with a cold helps your body direct its energy to fight the battle. The war going on inside your body can be very taxing, so it's recommended that you help your body out by lying down under a blanket.

GARGLE

Gargling can keep your throat moist and bring some relief. You can try a teaspoon of salt dissolved in warm water, four times a day.  To reduce the tickle in your throat, try an astringent gargle; tea that contains tannin, to tighten the membranes. Or you can use  a thick gargle made with honey or a mixture of honey and apple cider vinegar, a popular folk remedy. Let the mixture cool to room temp before gargling and remember; honey should never be given to children under the age of one.

DRINK HOT LIQUIDS

Hot beverages relieve nasal congestion, and help prevent dehydration. They also soothe the uncomfortable inflamed membranes that line your nose and throat.

TAKE STEAMY SHOWERS

Steamy showers moisturize your nasal passages and can relax you. If you are dizzy, like with the flu, run a steamy shower while you sit on a chair nearby and take a sponge bath.

SLEEP WITH AN EXTRA PILLOW UNDER YOUR HEAD

Sleeping with an extra pillow under your head can help with the drainage of nasal passages. If you don't like the angle, try placing pillow between the mattress and the box springs to create a gradual slope.

DON'T FLY!    IT SUCKS!

Flying can add to the stress your upper respiratory system is going through, and the air pressure can make you feel horrible. Flying with a cold can hurt your eardrums as a result of pressure changes during takeoff and landing. If you must fly, use a decongestant and carry a nasal spray with you to use right before take offs and landings. Chewing gum and swallowing frequently can also help relieve pressure.

THINGS TO REMEMBER

Serious conditions can be masquerading as a common cold, and don't forget that mild infections can turn into serious conditions. If you have severe symptoms or are feeling sicker with each passing day, see a doctor.

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