Dealing with a Cancer Diagnosis

4 Cold Treatments That Will Make You Feel Better

by For Content

One of the annoying things about the common cold is that there is no cure for it. Antibiotics won't work because the cold is viral, not bacterial, and antiviral drugs for the flu don't work for the cold viruses. Thankfully, colds are not usually serious, and the symptoms are more of an annoyance than anything else. Still, it's no fun to have a stuffed-up nose or a scratchy throat for a week. Here are four cold treatments that will help make you feel better -- though they won't cure your cold.

1. Gargling With Salt Water

Gargling with salt water is often touted as a great way to ease the pain of a sore throat. But even if your throat is not sore, this is a good cold treatment. The salt loosens up mucus, which makes it easier for you to cough or sneeze out. All you need is a teaspoon of salt stirred into a cup of warm water. Gargle a few mouthfuls for about 10 seconds each, spitting each into the sink when you're finished.

2. Menthol Rub

Menthol rub is something that people used to use decades ago but has since fallen a bit by the wayside. Some may see it as an outdated remedy, but it can offer great relief. You can purchase menthol rubs at most pharmacies. Just rub one on your chest before you go to bed. The vapors will soothe your respiratory tract and help keep your mucous loose through the night, so you get better sleep.

3. Cough Drops

Again, cough drops are not just for those who have a cough! The menthol vapors they release into your mouth can soothe your sinuses and help you breathe more freely. If you are concerned about sugar intake, just choose sugar-free cough drops. Suck on them throughout the day, and you'll have an easier time powering through the sickness.

4. Steam and Vapor

Water vapor is excellent for loosening mucus and soothing your nasal passages. You can run the shower as hot as it will go, and just lock yourself in the bathroom as it goes. Or, you can pour some boiling water into a bowl, and hold your head over it -- breathing in deeply. Do this before you go to bed and again when you wake up in the morning.

If your cold symptoms are accompanied by a fever or do not ease up within a week, seek professional treatment. You may have something more serious than the common cold -- like the flu or pertussis. Contact a company like Premier Urgent Care Centers of California, Inc. for more information and assistance. 

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