In cold and flu season, it is important that you take care of yourself. If symptoms of a cold or flu begin, it is important to know how to take care of yourself so you can feel better and get back to your normal activities and routine.
There are plenty of at-home remedies that you can do to help with the challenge of battling a cold or flu. These remedies can help ease your symptoms and are easily accessible to most people. Note that remedies may not take the place of professional medical treatment.
Home Remedies:
- Hydrate as much as possible by drinking plenty of water.
- Rest.
- Stay warm by using blankets or wearing warm clothing.
- Feed yourself well with foods that contain vitamins and nutrients. According to World Vision, hot soup is a good option to relieve congestion and soothe your throat.
- Gargle with salt water or drink hot tea to ease a sore throat.
- Use honey to treat your cough. This is a remedy used around the world.
- Use a humidifier in your home.
- Take a hot shower to open your sinuses.
- Some people can take zinc, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. However, side effects can include nausea, copper deficiency and loss of smell, and zinc can interact with certain medications. Ask your provider before taking zinc.
What Not to Do:
There are multiple things that you should NOT do if you begin to feel ill.
- Don’t fly – the pressure from an airplane can wreak havoc on your sinuses.
- Don’t vape or smoke – this could cause you to have more difficulty breathing.
- Don’t drink alcohol – this can increase your risk of dehydration and can make your symptoms worse.
- Don’t push yourself too hard – this can increase your fatigue.
- Don’t be around others – this could cause you to spread your illness to others. Stay home when you are sick.
- Don’t take probiotic supplements – starting a probiotic when ill can trigger upset stomach, diarrhea and bloating. You should talk to your medical provider before starting a probiotic.
Where Can I Get Help?
If you begin to feel like you are getting sick, with either the flu or a cold, you can schedule an appointment with UofL Health – Urgent Care Plus.
Also, our providers at UofL Physicians – Primary Care can administer flu vaccines. To make an appointment, call 502-588-4343.
