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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – We all know that awful feeling that sets in right before you get sick. You wake up one morning and instead of feeling bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, your head feels throbby and your nose is sniffly. You aren’t quite sick yet, but you can feel something coming on. People often assume that when these symptoms settle in, there is little you can do but stock up on tissues and prepare for the worst.
However, the good news is that there are actually several things you can do to combat a cold before it wreaks havoc on your immune system. Dr. Jordan Pritikin, a board-certified otolaryngologist at The Chicago Nasal & Sinus Center explains, “When a cold virus is in your body, it causes the nasal membranes to swell and leak. This leads to increased mucus production, which in turn leads to many of the cold symptoms that many people know and dread, such as runny noses and aching sinuses.”
By combating increased mucus production, you can actually help to stave off a sinus infection and keep a cold from really taking hold. Dr. Pritikin says, “Congested mucus doesn’t just sound yucky, it’s a breeding ground for bacteria and infection. You can keep these infections at bay by trying to clean out the mucus.”
You can decrease mucus production by taking an antihistamine, using a decongestant spray, or using an over-the-counter mucus-thinner. Many people also recommend warming the sinuses such as through a hot bath, a sauna, or applying a warm washcloth to the face. And chicken noodle soup might actually be good for more than the soul-one recent study showed it can actually help decrease inflammation, so it could have physical benefits as well!
Last but not least, Dr. Pritikin advises plenty of rest. “Avoiding stress is key, as research has shown that people with high stress tend to get sicker than people with low stress. You should also postpone any high-octane workouts sessions, and instead try to stay healthy by opting for small, healthy meals that are rich in nutrients. Now is not the time to hit the drive-thru or go to happy hour!”
About Dr. Jordan Pritikin
Dr. Jordan Pritikin is a board-certified otolaryngologist at Chicago Nasal & Sinus Center, a private medical practice devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of nasal and sinus disorders. Dr. Pritikin is a Fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and attended Rush Medical College in Chicago, where he was selected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Medical Society. Over the years, Dr. Pritikin has cultivated an interest in Rhinology, focusing his practice on diseases of the nose and sinuses, and has participated in clinical research exploring innovative therapies for chronic sinusitis. He has lectured at local and national meetings, developed informational and training videos demonstrating surgical techniques for the nose and sinuses, and has helped develop and refine instruments designed for sinus surgery. Dr. Pritikin and the Chicago Nasal & Sinus Center offer patients an unparalleled level of service, utilizing state-of-the art technology and innovative treatments while maintaining a thoughtful and caring approach. For more information visit http://www.
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