When you get a cold, the first thing that comes to mind is that it is caused by the cold weather. But what if you develop a cold when the weather is hot? While the winter season typically brings along coughs and sneezes, summer colds are more common than you can imagine. If you’re suddenly suffering from a runny nose, cough, or throat pain this season, don’t panic! We’ve got expert-backed home remedies that can help.
What causes summer colds?
A summer cold may sound weird and strange but many people catch it and suffer from symptoms during the hot weather. Regardless of when you catch a cold, the cause is always a virus or infection that can happen in any season. Apart from this, seasonal allergies are also responsible for getting cold in the summer season.
Symptoms of summer cold
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s not too late to boost your immune system and help prevent days of feeling rough.
Dr Naidu says, “Cold during summer is not rare nowadays. Most often summer colds are caused by a virus (Enterovirus). It is contagious and can travel in mucus, saliva, and stool of sick people.”
Here are home remedies to cure summer cold:
1. Take rest
Cold and cough can weaken and exhaust you by compromising your immune system. To battle viral infections and strengthen your immunity, you must get enough rest and sleep. Don’t overwork yourself by doing rigorous workouts or exercises. This can put your immunity to the test and worsen your condition.
Don’t underestimate the power of good sleep! Image courtesy: Shutterstock
2. Stay hydrated
Apart from getting enough rest, make sure you stay hydrated by consuming plenty of water or energy boosting drinks. Try orange juice, which is high in vitamin C and can help your immune system to stay strong, but stay away from dehydrating liquids such as tea, alcohol, and coffee. Keeping yourself hydrated can help thin mucus and make it easier to evacuate.
3. Increase vitamin C intake
As you probably already know, vitamin C is an immune booster. It strengthens your immune system and helps it fight bacteria and germs, contributing to your immune system’s protection. Essential vitamin and mineral supplementation should be done on a regular basis. Add iron and zinc to your diet to fight disease and stay healthy.
4. Try herb and spices
Yes, antioxidant-rich herbs and spices such as garlic, lemon, ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon pepper can help increase immunity. These herbs and spices can also assist to relieve a sore throat, decongest the body, and make you feel better in general. You can include them in your daily diet to help you heal faster.
5. Humidifiers/steam
Humidifiers can keep your nasal passage moist and moisturized, preventing it from drying out and becoming scratchy, especially after a cold. To get rid of a cold or cough, you can also take steam. Take steam at least three times a day, every day. You can also keep your body warm by taking a warm bath or shower.
Altbough coughs and colds can make you feel miserable, embracing the natural remedies available and taking it easy will soon have you feeling tip top again.