5 Ways You Could Be Making Your Cold Worse

Common Cold, Uncommon Habits

The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract and primarily affects the nose. It can start with a sore throat and escalate into a full-fledged cold with symptoms such as chills, headache, and low-grade fever.

Are You Making Your Cold Worse?

A cold can last for 1-2 weeks if properly treated. If left untreated it could last longer. Ensure you don't make the following 5 mistakes >>

1. Pretending You Aren't Sick

Your body needs extra energy when fighting an infection. Don’t exert yourself when you have a cold. Stay indoors, keep yourself relaxed and comfortable, while your body does the healing

2. Taking Antibiotics

Cold is a viral infection and does not respond to antibiotics. If you continue to take antibiotics when you don’t need them, you can build up a resistance. If your cold is severe, consult a doctor else rest, have lots of fluids and let your body heal.

3. Not Drinking Enough Fluids

It is important to keep your body hydrated during a cold. The fluids help thin the mucus, which makes your sinuses drain better. Water, juice, hot tea and soup are some options.

4. Smoking

Smoking is bad anytime and during a cold, even worse. It will end up irritating and damaging your lungs further. Second-hand smoking can be just as harmful.

5. Drinking Alcohol

Alcohol dehydrates and during a cold, your body needs to stay well hydrated. It also interferes with cold medications and can cause unwanted reactions.

Medanta Medical Team