How to Get Rid of a Head Cold
A head cold is also known as common cold or viral upper respiratory tract infection. Given how common the illness has become, learning how to get rid of a head cold is necessary.
In order to learn how to get rid of a head cold, you have to get acquainted with its causes and symptoms. Head cold or viral upper respiratory tract infection is characterized by sore throat, cough, watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, and congestion. It is caused by around two hundred viruses, but rhinovirus causes around 10 to 40 percent of common colds (see Wikipedia: common colds). Corona virus, respiratory syncytial virus, adenovirus, and parainfluenza virus also cause head cold or flu. Because of this, head cold is a common and recurring problem.
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Here are the most effective ways on how to get rid of a head cold:
- Stay hydrated. If you ask health professionals how to get rid of a head cold, they’ll tell you to stay hydrated. You have to drink a lot of water. You have to drink at least eight glasses of water each day. It also helps to drink warm lemon water with honey, and it is also recommended to drink warm chicken soup and clear broth. This prevents dehydration and loosens congestion. You may also drink herbal teas, sport drinks, and fresh fruit juice. It is also best to avoid soft drinks, coffee, and alcohol as these drinks can make dehydration worse and could also worsen the symptoms of a head cold.
- Breathe some steam. One of the most effective “how to get rid of a head cold” tips is to breathe in some steam. This will help loosen up the congestion. To do this, you have to place your head over a pot of hot water. Then, breathe through your nose slowly. You have to be careful when you do this, though.
- Use Salt-and-Water Rinse. In order to make your own salt-and-water rinse, you have to mix 3 teaspoons of salt with 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Place the mixture in an airtight container and add 24 ounces of warm distilled water. Now, place the mixture in a bulb syringe or you can use a Neti pot. Then, move your head over the basin and squirt some of the salt water into your nose. It is best to use distilled water to avoid infection. Also, make sure to wash your Neti pot or bulb syringe after. (Also read: Effective Essential Oils For Breathing Difficulties)
- Get enough rest. Here’s another way on how to get rid of a head cold – get enough rest. Do not push yourself too hard and take some time off if you are suffering from a head cold or flu. Fighting the flu or the head cold exhausts your body so direct all your energy into fighting off the infection by lying down.
- Use hot packs. One of the most effective home remedies for a head cold is to put hot packs on your sinus. You can find hot packs in the nearest drug store or you can make your own. You can simply heat a damp washcloth in a microwave for about 30 seconds and then put it on your sinuses.
- Put an extra pillow under your head.. If you have a head cold, it is best to put an extra pillow on your bed. This will relieve the congested nasal passages. (also read: How To Get Rid Of A Blocked Nose In Bed)
- Use a cool mist vaporizer. To help loosen the congestion, it is best to add moisture in your bedroom by using a humidifier or a cool mist vaporizer. But, make sure to change the water every day and clean the unit regularly.
- Gargle. One of the most effective ways to relieve a head cold is by using a gargle. This can help ease a sore throat and it could give you temporary relief. If you have a common cold, dissolve a tablespoon of salt in lukewarm water and gargle it at least four times daily. You can also gargle with tea to help ease the tickle in your throat. Here’s another option – mix some raspberry leaves and lemon juice with 2 cups of warm water. Let the mixture cool first before gargling. This is an awesome remedy for a head cold and it is quite cheap, too!