Colds, which are upper respiratory viruses, spread through tiny droplets when someone coughs or sneezes. Suffering from a cold can be quite unpleasant. Colds, which are upper respiratory viruses, spread through tiny droplets when someone coughs or sneezes.
You can catch a cold by being around sick people or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face. The change in season also affects the rampant spread of cold.
Preventing a cold isn’t too complicated, here are some strategies to help keep you healthy.
- Wash Your Hands: Regular handwashing is crucial. Viruses can linger on surfaces for a while, and washing your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds can help prevent infection.
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces: Commonly touched areas like doorknobs, cell phones and light switches can harbour cold viruses if touched by someone who’s sick. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting these surfaces can be helpful.
- Maintain healthy habits: Ensure you get enough sleep, maintain a balanced diet and manage chronic health conditions. These practices can strengthen your immune system and reduce the risk of catching a cold.
- Consider wearing a mask: Masks, such as N95 or KN95, have been effective in preventing the spread of viruses like Covid-19. They can also offer protection against the common cold.
Masks, such as N95 or KN95, have been effective in preventing the spread of viruses like Covid-19. They can also offer protection against the common cold.
- Avoid crowded spaces: In the days leading up to a special event or trip, try to avoid crowded indoor areas. Being in close quarters with many people can increase your risk of catching a cold.
While you might think about using supplements like zinc, they aren’t strongly supported by scientific evidence. Products like probiotics, vitamin C, vitamin D or zinc sulfate have mixed results in preventing or shortening colds.
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It’s essential to consult your doctor before trying any new supplements.
There’s no magic cure for a cold, and antibiotics won’t help because they target bacteria, not viruses. Over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief from symptoms, but they don’t cure the cold itself.
For most people, a cold will run its course and eventually resolve without complications.