Effective treatment for colds and flu.

     When you have a runny nose, fever, aches and pains, and a persistent cough, you probably have a cold and flu. Here are the remedies ranked from least effective to most effective for colds and flu

1. Nasal spray and saline solution.

A combination of nasal sprays (nasal spray steroids such as flonase, nasacort, nasonex, and nasal antihistamines such as astelin, astepro, patanase) and saline mouthwashes are most effective in combating cold symptoms and flu because they work directly in the nose and throat to relieve inflammation, runny nose, cough, and sore throat.

Nasal sprays help moisten the lining of the nose and may help clear secretions to relieve congestion, while saline gargles can help prevent upper respiratory tract infections and may reduce the severity of these symptom. Gargling with salt water can reduce and thin mucus, helping to remove bacteria and allergens. Just dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt water in 1 cup full of water and gargle you will see the effect.

2. Nasal decongestants.

Decongestants are handy when you have a stuffy nose, but they won’t make you feel better. They work by constricting blood vessels in the lining of the nose, reducing blood circulation causing the swollen tissues in the nose to shrink and ultimately making it easier for you to breathe. You should only use them for about 3-5 days, long-term use will make your body dependent on them and may make your symptoms worse.

3. Painkillers.

Over-the-counter mild pain relievers containing ingredients such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve) are quite effective in combating symptoms such as fever, sore throat, headache, and aches and pains. body.

4. Sauna.

Saunas contain natural ingredients like menthol and eucalyptus that help clear the nose and have an anti-bacterial effect. Steaming doesn’t help with active congestion like an anti-congestion medication, but the strong menthol smell will trick your brain into thinking you’re breathing through your unobstructed nose.

5. Chicken soup.

Any kind of soup can soothe a sore throat and can help clear the nose in the same way as a steam bath. Research published in the journal Chest also shows that drinking a bowl of chicken soup can slow the migration of neutrophils – white blood cells that protect the body from infection.

6. Vitamin C.

Taking vitamin C before a cold can shorten the duration of symptoms and may also benefit people with frequent viral infections. This is the vitamin you should take all year long to maintain good health.