Common Illnesses Symptoms and Remedies Common Cold

About the symptoms of the common cold and advice for the proper treatments or remedies

EVERYDAY AILMENTS--CONSULTING THE SPECIALISTS

COMMON COLD

Runny or stuffed nose; general muscular aches; headache; sometimes fever, especially in children; irritated, dry, or sore throat; fatigue.

M.D.: Caused by a virus, the common cold involves inflammation and swelling in nasal passages and sinuses, which drain into the throat and cause irritation and infection.

There are at least three dozen strains of viruses which are believed to cause cold symptoms. Antibiotics have no effect on viruses and should not be used in the treatment of colds.

The common cold is self-limiting. That is, your body will build its own defenses against the virus and will heal tissue damaged by infection in from 4 to 10 days. Bed rest and plenty of liquids, especially fruit juices, will aid your body in the work of its normal healing processes.

Aspirin is sometimes recommended to relieve aches. But antihistamines are being prescribed less and less frequently by physicians because of their "bounce back" effect--meaning that they give relief at first but often cause an increase in the production of mucus which leads to more discomfort.

Steam and other inhalants, such as those containing eucalyptus, wintergreen, or other aromatics, can have a soothing effect on swollen membranes.

Nutritionist: Viruses which cause colds are present in the air at all times. You become susceptible to them during times of either physical or emotional stress, which lowers your body's natural resistance.

Many colds begin as allergies, which are forms of physical stress.

The need for certain vitamins and minerals increases under stress conditions, because your body uses them up more quickly at these times.

High-protein foods such as brewer's yeast and wheat germ, rich in B vitamins, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables, should be included in a stress diet.

Vitamins: A, B-complex, C, D, and E are recommended. Minerals: calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Psychiatrist: Chronic colds, like sinusitis, are often related to facial tension, manifested as a result of holding back tears or anger. Colds are stress-related. Resolution of conflicts, either in everyday events or in your unconscious life, allows your body to relax and keep up healthy, natural defenses against disease.

Acupuncturist: (See Sinusitis section).

Herbalist: Teas of cayenne, chamomile, goldenseal, lemongrass, myrrh, peppermint, rose hips, sage, and yarrow. For vapors to relieve congestion, sniff oil of wintergreen or fresh, crushed eucalyptus leaves.

Other: Regular exercise, which stimulates blood flow and requires vigorous breathing, increases your resistance to respiratory disease.

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