Stuffy noses, runny noses, constant coughs, sore throats - ugh, colds are the worst! If cold germs have hit your house, you could be looking at 10 - 14 days of being under the weather. Follow these tips to make those 2 weeks as tolerable as possible.
- Stay hydrated. Loosen congestion with water, broth or warm water with lemon and honey. Prevent dehydration with these liquids and avoid soda, coffee and alcohol.
- Add moisture to the air and loosen congestion with a cool mist vaporizer or humidifier. Be sure to change the water daily and clean the unit regularly. Don't use steam as it has been shown to be unhelpful in clearing congestion.
- Relieve stuffiness with over-the-counter saline nasal drops or sprays. Older children and adults can use saline nasal sprays. For babies, put several saline drops into one nostril and then suction that nostril with a bulb syringe.
- Ease a sore throat with a saltwater gargle. Children under 6 are usually unable to gargle properly, but for all other sick family members, dissolve 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water. Ice chips, lozenges/hard candy, or sore throat sprays can also provide some relief, but don't give lozenges or hard candy to young children as they are a choking hazard.
- Relieve symptoms with over-the-counter medications. Over-the-counter (OTC) decongestants, antihistamines and pain relievers won't prevent or shorten a cold, but they can offer some relief for cold symptoms. The FDA warns against the use of OTC cold medicines in children younger than age 6. Acetaminophen is the only option for babies 6 months or younger. Children older than 6 months can be given either acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Your child's doctor can help you determine the correct dose.
- Stay home and rest! Prevent spreading cold germs by keeping your sick family member at home. The time spent resting at home also gives your body time to heal.
For more info, check out the Mayo Clinic.
