It seems like everyone is congested, coughing, hacking or sneezing! What can you do to protect yourself? We are going to review a few basics to keep you and yours safe:
1. Wash your hands. Often. Remember what your mother told you. It was good advice as this is the major way to prevent spreading colds and flu and other nasty things. Also, keep those hands away from your face!
2. Drink plenty of fluids. Staying well hydrated is important any time of the year. Currently, we are going in and out of buildings with heaters on, and this dry heat will suck the moisture right out of you.
3. Use a humidifier at night. Again, replace the moisture that you are losing from the heating system. Nasal passages that are dry are not as effective at keeping you healthy.
4. If you still refuse to use the Neti-pot, at least try a saline nasal spray. This will keep moisture in those nasal passages and keep everything "running" smoothly.
5. Repeat the basics: exercise, get enough sleep, and eat a healthy diet. All of these will boost the immune system. While the jury is out on how much vitamin C can help, it does not hurt to add an extra dose during cold and flu season. An extra 500mg supplement is sufficient.
6. And back to mom….chicken soup really does help. Warm liquids not only hydrate, but also speed the movement of mucous through the nasal passages, reducing congestion and increasing comfort.
Healthy living with John Hollis Pharmacy! Submitted by Cindy Franklin, staff pharmacist
