Unfortunately, there's still no known cure for the common cold, which means that this holiday season may be spent battling a few sore throats and nursing a swollen nose. Of course, there are a few tricks and tips that can help you steer clear of the illness causing bacteria that brings on these dastardly flu symptoms, but if you're unlucky enough to find yourself feeling under the weather, try a few of these tricks for a healthier tomorrow.
Gargle, Rinse, and Repeat:
Sore throats can be the bane of any bad cold, especially if you can't risk calling in sick when you start to feel that itchy sensation forming. Fortunately, there are a few things that you can do to ease some of the discomfort before it gets too bad. Heat has been a long known remedy for pain; think about how many people use a hot water bottle for a sprain or back ache. Well, this is similar for your throat, only there is an extra trick to this tip. Grab your favorite tea or coffee mug and pour in some warm, not too hot, water; now take the salt shaker and add a pinch to the mug and stir. This warm salty liquid isn't for drinking, so don't panic; what you need to do is take a sip, gargle, and spit. After a few tries your throat will begin to feel better, if only for a short while.
Decongest Yourself:
You've probably heard about those neat contraptions used to unblock stuffed up noses by breathing steam in, or pouring water into one nostril and out the other. There is an easier and cheaper way to decongest some of that backed up phlegm and mucus yourself, and as an added perk, you can take a hot bath when you're finished. If you have a shower bath combo put the stopper in your tub and turn on the shower with hot water. Let your water run for a while to produce a good amount of steam; when the tub is full enough hop in and relax in the steamy room. Don't turn on your ceiling fan, just this once; the steam will actually begin loosening up all of that icky stuff and will help you breathe deep in no time.
Double Up On Peppermint:
Mint isn't just a great flavor for tooth paste; it can also help make you feel better when you're under the weather. If you have to go head into work for the day try packing a few mint teabags in your briefcase for later. A little bit of hot water in a mug and this tea can really lift your spirits, giving you more of that hot water that eased your throat, and also a tingly mint that will allow you to breathe more freely. If you can get your hands on some mint lotion or vapor rub, it can also be a big help during the night, especially if you've got a bit of a cough; rub it onto your chest before bed, and inhale the refreshing aroma.