Having a cold can be distracting. Body aches, stuffy nose, sore throat or nasal congestion are some of the symptoms that we wish to end soon while we’re sick, making us want to do everything to make ourselves better – not knowing that some of our ways to combat sickness could only make us feel worse.
Listed below are the 10 things you should not do while battling a cold. Check them out and see if your old ways to combat flu or cold is really the right thing to do or should be stopped when sickness strikes again.
1. Exercising too much
Light to moderate exercise can make you feel better. A good swim can help in good blood circulation to your nasal passages that can make breathing easier. While sick, it is best to take it easy, listen to your body and listen to your doctor’s advice when it comes to exercise.
2. Blowing nose too hard
You probably tries to blow when you have a stuffy or congested nose but putting much pressure and squeezing your nose forcefully might put you at risk for having a sinus infection. Some of the possible effects of blowing too hard are ear infection, rupture of eardrum and nose bleeds.
3. Locking up indoors
Yes, obviously, you don’t want to spread your germs in public. But not to the point of locking yourself inside the room for days. Opening your windows to get some fresh air or spending some time at your backyard to take advantage of fresh air and lovely sunlight can be beneficial.
4. Bundling up with thick blanket
The urge to keep yourself warm when you are sick is understandable but it is more advisable to use only light sheets and not those tons of thick blankets, especially if you have a fever. Why? There are chances that your temperature will rise even more if you keep yourself bundled with tons of blankets!
5. Eating simple carbs
Simple carbs can help when you have upset stomach. But eating refined carbs like buttered toast when you have a cold? Think again. These refined carbohydrates are quickly broken down into sugar just the same as drinking soda. Go for carbs with low glycemic index like whole grains, wheat bread and bread rich in fiber.
6. Relying on sanitizer
The best way to protect yourself from germs is through handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
7. Driving while sick
It is sometimes unavoidable but driving while ill can be dangerous too. If you need to buy medicine or go to your clinic appointment, ask for some help from your family or friend.
8. Drinking alcohol
The next time you decide whether to drink alcohol or not while having a cold, always keep in mind that alcohol can be contraindicated to other cold medicines which can be harmful to your health. Opt for water, herbal tea or fruit drinks instead.
9. Taking too much medicine
Avoid overdosing yourself as this can lead to undesirable effects. Taking too much vitamins and minerals than the recommended dose can hurt you. Too much vitamin C can cause diarrhea and nausea. Try these 10 homemade remedies to recover from cold and cough quickly.
10. Using too much zinc nasal spray
Too much use of zinc nasal spray for a long time could lead to permanent loss of smell. Avoid zinc overdose by taking only the recommended dose.