According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), colds are so common that people can expect to be affected at least twice a year. Even though this condition is not usually critical, it can still create a lot of discomfort. Medical experts at diagnostic centres in uttarpara believe that although there is no cure for this condition at present, there are a number of home remedies that can help with the symptoms. Some usual symptoms of common cold are sore throat, coughing, nasal congestion, pains and aches. Luckily, most of the home remedies are not known to produce harmful side effects.

  1. Gargling:

    This simple and old remedy can comfort a swollen throat, one of the most common symptoms of a cold. You can prepare your own saltwater consistency. One common option is gargling with a cup of warm water added with a teaspoon of salt. Another option could be warm water mixed with ½ teaspoon of honey and lemon juice. However, no matter which option you try, make sure that the water is not too hot or else it could burn your throat.

  2. Sipping fluids:

    Professionals at diagnostic centres in Hooghly advice consuming sufficient quantity of fluid as it will avoid dehydration and thin mucus. We all agree that water is the best option that helps in staying sufficiently hydrated. Some other fluids like fruit juice are also good enough.

  3. Steam:

    It is said that inhaling the steam during a hot shower helps in reducing sinus pressure and nasal congestion, temporarily at least. A good alternative to this would be filling a container with steaming water and inhaling the steam by covering it with a towel to prevent it from escaping. Steam helps in comforting the throat and nasal tissues. If you want this process to be even more effective, try adding 3 to 7 drops of any essential oil to it such as eucalyptus.

  4. Blow the nose properly:

    This step may appear to be the simplest of all but experts at diagnostic centres in Hooghly believe that it is vital to blow the nose in a correct manner to ensure the nasal passage is cleaned as much as possible. This could be done by blocking one nostril and softly blowing into a tissue, then repeating the same with the other nostril.