What Not to Do When You Have a Cold
By Brandi Goodman
Colds can hit at any time of year. They're common when the weather changes or when you've been in close proximity to someone else who has one. Most people will tell you what you should do, such as getting plenty of rest and taking cold medications, but here's what not to do when you have a cold.
Don't Stop Eating
When your stuffy nose and general feeling of being unwell makes it hard to eat, you have to remember how much you need to. Even if you can't taste much, it's important that you maintain a healthy diet when you have a cold. You need the nutrients to heal your body and recuperate faster. It will help you to beat the cold and maintain your strength.
Don't Drink Caffeine
Caffeine can dehydrate your body. Caffeinated beverages are also typically full of sugar. Neither of these things are good for you on a regular day, let alone when you have a cold you're trying to get over. Don't drink caffeine. The only thing you should be drinking is water.
Don't Let Your Symptoms Go Unmonitored
Some people believe they just have a basic cold and they'll get over it eventually. They let weeks go by without getting better, yet still never get seen by their doctor. You don't want to let your symptoms go unmonitored and unchecked by a professional. There could be an underlying issue or you may have more than just your average cold. If at least two weeks have gone by and you're still feeling under the weather, it's time to get checked. This is especially important if your symptoms include difficult breathing or chest pain.
Don't Smoke
Smokers may continue to have their cigarettes even with a cold. This isn't ideal. Your lungs and throat are already compromised. You may find it even more difficult to breathe and notice you're coughing harder and longer than usual when you're smoking too. Avoid cigarettes as much as you can when you have cold symptoms so you have a better chance of recovering sooner rather than later.
Avoid doing this list of things when you have a cold. Doing so will ensure you get better faster and can recuperate with less problems. A cold is usually recovered from quickly, but doing the wrong things when you have one can exacerbate it and make it take even longer to eliminate from your system.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Round Rock, Tex.