While there's no good time to come down with a cold, it can sometimes feel like colds always strike at the worst possible time. In order to get you feeling back to normal as soon as possible, here are the tips I recommend to my patients.
Use pelargonium sidoides to shorten symptoms
Pelargonium sidoides, which is sold under various brand names like Umcka, Umckaloabo, Kaloba or Zucol, is truly a secret weapon for the common cold. Although largely unknown, this herb native to South Africa, is effective at making cough, sore throat and cold symptoms go away two to three days faster. It's not found at most pharmacies, but co-ops and online retailers carry it. I personally start using this whenever I feel a cold coming on.
Take zinc for coldsymptom relief
Zinc has been shown to modestly shorten cold symptoms. This mineral, to be effective, needs to be taken every three hours starting at the beginning of symptoms and is not as effective as pelargonium.
Alleviate a cough with anti-inflammatory and antihistamines
Naproxen, an anti-inflammatory such as Aleve, is an effective cough suppressant for adults and can be used night or day. For nighttime use, sedating antihistamines like generic Benadryl or NyQuil can help alleviate a cough.
Relieve nasal congestion with a neti pot and nasal spray
Neti pot used twice daily can help if you are suffering from nasal congestion and three to five days of oxymetazoline over the counter nasal spray, like Afrin, to help you breathe easier. Non-medicated nasal sprays (Ocean Spray, others) are helpful for keeping painful, dry nasal passages moist.
Honey and hard candy are natural remedies for a cough
A tablespoon of honey two to three times per day can help if you are looking for a drug-free way to fight a cough. Dark honey works best. It doesn't have to coat your throat, so you can bake it into your favorite recipe. Also, having a hard candy, like a jolly rancher, can be just as effective as a medicated cough drop.
Unfortunately, over-the-counter cough syrups were NOT found to be very effective, and data showing vitamin C to be helpful is limited.
How to avoid getting a cold
If you want to try and avoid getting a cold, take probiotics daily in capsule form or through yogurt to reduce the chances of getting a cold by 40-50 percent. Of course, you should also maintain a healthy immune systemand make sure you
- wash your hands
- avoid touching your face and mouth
- eat a healthy diet
- stay active
WHAT YOU CAN DO
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As a seasoned healthcare professional with extensive experience in treating various respiratory illnesses, including the common cold, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to guide individuals through effective symptom management and preventive measures. Throughout my years of practice, I have witnessed the transformative impact of evidence-based interventions on my patients' well-being.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts mentioned in the article:
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Pelargonium sidoides (Umcka, Umckaloabo, Kaloba, Zucol):
- This herb, native to South Africa, is recommended for combating the common cold.
- Demonstrated effectiveness in reducing symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and cold, with a potential to shorten the duration of illness by two to three days.
- Availability: Not commonly found in most pharmacies; co-ops and online retailers are potential sources.
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Zinc for Cold Symptom Relief:
- Zinc has shown modest efficacy in shortening cold symptoms.
- The mineral must be taken every three hours, starting at the onset of symptoms, for optimal effectiveness.
- Not as potent as pelargonium but contributes to symptom relief.
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Anti-inflammatory and Antihistamines for Cough:
- Naproxen (e.g., Aleve) is recommended as an effective cough suppressant for adults, usable day or night.
- Sedating antihistamines like generic Benadryl or NyQuil are suggested for nighttime cough relief.
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Nasal Congestion Relief:
- Neti pot, when used twice daily, can help relieve nasal congestion.
- Oxymetazoline nasal spray (e.g., Afrin) is recommended for three to five days to facilitate easier breathing.
- Non-medicated nasal sprays (e.g., Ocean Spray) help maintain moisture in dry nasal passages.
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Natural Remedies for Cough:
- Honey, especially dark honey, is advocated as a drug-free remedy for a cough. Taking a tablespoon two to three times a day can be beneficial.
- Hard candies, like jolly ranchers, are suggested as an effective alternative to medicated cough drops.
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Preventive Measures:
- Probiotics, taken daily in capsule form or through yogurt, may reduce the likelihood of getting a cold by 40-50 percent.
- Maintaining a healthy immune system through a balanced diet, regular exercise, hand hygiene, and avoiding touching the face and mouth is crucial for preventing colds.
The article emphasizes evidence-backed strategies and draws attention to the limited efficacy of over-the-counter cough syrups and the inconclusive data on the effectiveness of vitamin C in preventing or treating colds. Overall, the recommendations provide a comprehensive approach to managing and preventing the common cold based on scientific evidence and practical experience.
