THERAPY FOR A COLD

The cold therapy

The general therapy principles for a cold consist of fluid intake (especially tea or cold tea and water) and rest. The patient can be recommended to stay in bed on the days with the highest severity of the disease and to take it easy. Since a large part of the water is lost with colds, particular attention must be paid to a fluid balance, which should be 2-3 liters a day. Locastad® can be taken as a lozenge for ulcer pain.

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To ensure the continuity of the nose To restore and to swell the nasal mucous membranes, inhalative steam baths should be carried out several times a day. For this, the patient should either enter a pot filled with water Home remedies like chamomile or salt, bring to a boil and then inhale for 10-15 minutes with your head bent over it. In the past, chamomile steam baths were mainly recommended, nowadays people tend to switch to salt steam baths, as chamomile is said to have a drying effect. In addition to the decongestant effect of the mucous membranes, the steam bath should also help prevent sinusitis. Red exposure should have the same effect, which most patients with cold is perceived as pleasant and should also be carried out several times a day. Gargling in lukewarm salt water can help relieve Sore throat, decongestant nasal sprays can be used for better breathing. However, these drugs should only be used for a few days, as prolonged use leads to the syndrome of "smelly nose" can lead. This syndrome is based on inflammation of the lining of the nose caused by nasal sprays. Other Symptoms how a headache and fever can be associated with e.g. Ibuprofen, Paracetamol and ASS be alleviated.

If a bacterial superinfection occurs (Bacteria settle on the preexisting viral infection), the use of drugs containing antibiotics is usually necessary. Many doctors give antibiotics at the first sign of a cold to avoid bacterial superinfection. Due to the possible development of resistance, one should refrain from giving antibiotics early.

Would you like to know more about bacterial superinfection? - Then read our article: Cold caused by bacteria

If the symptoms persist for longer than 1-2 weeks, the general condition worsens despite the above measures, or clear signs of a bacterial infection are visible (e.g. very high fever, yellow mucus in the sputum), you should consult a doctor and possibly start antibiotic therapy.

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Even if the patient has an underlying disease that weakens the immune system (e.g. HIV, diabetes mellitus or chemotherapeutic measures), antibiotic treatment should be started immediately, as it can be assumed that the patient's weakened body will not be able to successfully deal with the virus to fight. Not using antibiotics in these cases increases the risk of life-threatening and even fatal courses.
As an alternative to the classic treatments, some people also try to treat a cold with homeopathic medicines.

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Cold medicines

Inhaling if you have a cold