Health care experts have explained simple ways to reduce the symptoms of a cold – or make sure it doesn’t last too long – as the price of over-the-counter medication has doubled. UK adults get an average of two to four colds per year and children six to 10 annually and Google searches for “how to get rid of a cold” have rocketed by 600% in the past week.
But the price of cold and flu medication has almost doubled in price, with Lemsip’s Mucus, Cough and Catarrh costing £8 in some shops. Two in five adults now also ask for a GP appointment for minor health issues like colds. Care expert Lee Cartwright at Mobility Solutions Direct said: “While certain cold and flu medication increases in price, there are many effective and affordable ways to treat your sickness at home.
One of the most crucial steps is to prioritise rest, staying hydrated, and even stretching, which can significantly boost your body’s ability to fight off the virus and recover quickly.” Gargle salt water is a recommended method to relieve the effects of a cold. It may not be the most pleasant option, but salt water helps loosen thick mucus, clearing out irritants in your throat.
It should be done ideally before bed as it keeps a cold from getting worse. For the best results, mix half a tablespoon of salt into 250ml of warm water. Gargle the solution at the back of your throat for as long as you can. The warm water should make the experience gentler on your throat. Sleeping with two pillows is suggested to improve sleep quality when you have a cold. Your body needs enough rest to fight off any infections, but lying flat can cause mucus to build up.
Instead, raise your head with an extra pillow. The elevation will alleviate sinus pressure and improve your breathing, allowing you to sleep more comfortably. Using up to two pillows is recommended. Stretching your head and neck can also help relieve congestion. The tension in these areas can increase when sinuses are congested due to a cold.
Taking a couple of minutes in the day to stretch the muscles in your jaw or neck can speed up your recovery and energise you for the rest of the day. Inhaling steam is another effective method to loosen mucus in your sinuses, making it drain easier. This can be done at home by leaning over a bowl of steaming hot water with a towel over your head.
Breathing in the steam slowly soothes and opens the nasal passages. It is suggested to add essential oils like lavender for relaxation before bed. Drinking lots of fluids is a simple yet important way to speed up recovery from a cold. Staying hydrated is vital to support your immune system, which works harder when you are sick.
Fluids like water are essential to help carry white blood cells throughout the body to eliminate toxins and viruses. By following these simple, cost-effective methods, you can alleviate cold symptoms and reduce its duration without the need for expensive medication.