Colds

[plmokn]

Hi everyone,

I have a really bad cold right now and I am having a pretty bad flare. I was wondering if it is normal to get a flare when you have a cold because I seem to get one every time. Also does anyone have any suggestions as to what to take with a cold because normal cold medicine seems like it might cause problems.

[Goldfinch]

I'm sorry for your flare. And feeling sick is awful. If your cold is a head-cold, one the best ways to get some non-chemical relief is to use a saline nasal irrigation. You can use a bulb syringe or a neti pot, and purchase saline packets or make your own with non-iodized salt and baking soda.

Most anti-histamines and cold-relief meds dry out your sinuses, which isn't really good for them. A saline wash makes you feel better instantly and keeps your sinuses moist, which is better for them, and can't possibly hurt your bladder.

Ricola original natural herb drops don't bother me, and they help for a dry or sore throat; dunno if you find the same. Iced water help anaesthetize your throat too.

It goes without saying: chicken soup. And I am in the camp that believes dairy is better avoided when sick, as it is a happy environment for bacteria, but not everyone subscribes to that theory. Feel better soon!

[kadi]

Here are a few of my favorite (for me, IC friendly) cold remedies...
1. Hot showers with a "Sudacare Shower Soother" on the floor (fizzy tablet that releases Vicks type vapors when the hot water hits it)
2. Rinsing nose out with "Simply Saline"-reduces congestion
3. Vicks "Baby Rub"- milder than regular Vicks & more soothing
4. BreatheRight nasal strips (stick on to outside of your nose to open it up more)
5. Hot pear juice with a little honey
6. For sore throat & to soothe dry cough, Werthers Original hard candy
7. Gargle with salt water
8. Homemade chicken soup
9. Mucinex for chest coughs
10. Ludens Licorice Throat Drops or Ricola original (not citrus!) drops.
11. Vaporizer next to bed, mine has a place to put menthol liquid in it.
12. Theraflu vapor patch: Like a sticker with Vicks vapors in it that you stick to your pj top. No gooey Vicks all over your chest!

[ICNDonna]

I'm allergic to eucalyptus and menthol so Vicks and most of the cold remedies are a problem for me. I usually just take tylenol, drink lots of liquids, and rest. And I do use a saline nasal spary.

Donna

[plmokn]

Also do any of you get flares whenever you get a cold because I tend to everytime and I'm wondering if thats normal.

[VickiB]

I feel your pain as I have a cold myself! ARGH!

I don't flare when I catch a cold. Well, except for that one time I took Nyquil. -I won't do that again!

My cold remedy is lots of liquids, good chicken soup, and plenty of rest.

Hope this passes soon for you!

Vicki