Common cold treatment

Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.

Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Common cold treatment

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How it works

Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Common cold

The common cold is a viral infection that primarily affects the nose and throat (upper respiratory tract). It's ubiquitous, especially in the colder months, leading to mild symptoms that usually self-resolve in a week or two. Despite its prevalence, there's no cure in the traditional sense, making it a prime candidate for natural treatment approaches to alleviate symptoms and possibly shorten the duration.

Causes

The common cold is caused by numerous viruses, with the rhinoviruses being the most common culprit. These viruses spread through airborne droplets when someone who is sick coughs or sneezes, or through direct contact with infected surfaces. Factors such as being tired, stressed, or having allergies can increase your susceptibility to catching the cold.

Signs and symptoms

- Sneezing - Runny or stuffy nose - Sore throat - Coughing - Mild headache - Mild body aches - Fatigue - A low-grade fever (more common in children)

Diagnosing Common cold

Diagnosis of the common cold is usually based on the symptoms and physical examination. Laboratory tests are rarely needed unless there's a concern for a more serious condition. A healthcare provider may consider the timing of symptoms and their severity to distinguish the common cold from other infections like the flu.

Prevention and natural treatment

Prevention involves basic hygiene practices such as regular hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and keeping your immune system strong through a healthy lifestyle. For those already affected, the focus shifts to symptom management and speeding up the recovery process. Treatment strategies in functional medicine aim at boosting the immune system and alleviating symptoms naturally. This includes: - Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids like water, tea, and broth to stay hydrated and loosen mucus. - Rest: Allowing your body to heal by getting adequate rest. - Vitamin C: While the evidence is mixed, some studies suggest Vitamin C can shorten the duration of colds. - Zinc: Taking zinc lozenges within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms can reduce the duration of a cold. - Echinacea: Some research indicates that Echinacea can help reduce the severity and length of the common cold. - Honey: Especially in warm tea, honey can help soothe a sore throat and cough. It's crucial to remember that while natural remedies can be effective, they should complement, not replace, advice from healthcare professionals. Additionally, it's essential to check for possible interactions between natural supplements and any existing medications.

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