Reducing the Risk of Cold and Cough

Oct 30
09:17

2011

Sharad Gaikwad

Sharad Gaikwad

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Cold and Cough, a common illness resulting due to infection with one of more than 200 varied Rhinovirus, a group of immensely contagious viruses that attack the mucous membranes which line inside of the nose.

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Due to the variation of rhinovirus an adult person may suffer from cold and cough several times a year and children may catch cold and cough up to 8 to 12 times a year,Reducing the Risk of Cold and Cough Articles double the time than an adult person. Cold and cough is the most common of viral infections. Some people develop sore throat and severe cough as a result of dripping nose, and even headache. Cold and cough don’t usually cause fever or body pains.

Colds are self-limiting, generally gone in about five to seven days. Treatment is a must targeting relief of symptoms. There are several over-the counter cold products containing decongestant medications, cough suppressants, analgesic medication and sometimes antihistamine. Drinking plenty of fluids is very essential to help loosen nasal secretions, especially when taking decongestant medications that completely dry out the mucous membranes. Antibiotic Medication is not effective in treating viral infections once you catch it. Antiviral medications just shorten the course of the cold and cough. If proper care is not taken there are chances of developing bronchitis and pneumonia, both of which can have serious health effects for people who lack a strong immune system.

A strong immune system is always the most sought out way to live healthy life and even for the prevention of cold and cough. If the immune system is gone for a toss, infections have an easy time of it. As the saying goes “Prevention is better than cure” it's essentially important to reduce the risk of infections by taking some extra preventive measures.

Some few preventive measures for Cold and cough are: Avoiding close contact with people suffering from cold and cough. Wearing a germicidal mask if you are around people with cold and cough (not really possible every time but advised). A viral transmission by hand contact is a major route of infection, so wash your hands thoroughly and frequently with soap and warm water. One of the most effective preventive measures for cold and cough is adapting stress management system; stress basically suppresses the immune system and makes a person vulnerable to infections. A stress management system is essentially important for maintaining good health, avoiding and prevention of cold and cough. There is one unconventional preventive measure for cold and cough as well and that is to allow ones body to develop a fever as the viruses do not reproduce at higher body temperature.  A fever with high temperature is one of the body’s defense mechanism. One can even opt for natural supplements for the prevention of cold and cough and even support immune system functions. Besides the given measure to prevent cold and cough one essentially needs to practice good health habits such as getting plenty of sleep, being physically active, managing stress, drinking ample fluids and most importantly consuming nutritious food.