Got the Sniffles? Here’s How to Recover From Colds and Other Winter Respiratory Infections.

At-Home Recovery Strategies for Cold and Other Winter Infections

It’s wintertime in New England and unfortunately in most families, someone is getting the cold or flu.

Most of the time, bedrest, fluids and over-the-counter medicines are all you need to manage symptoms and get back to feeling like yourself. Sometimes, more serious symptoms require a trip to your primary care provider.

Let’s take a look at what you need to do if you come down with a cold or another winter respiratory virus like the flu, and when you should schedule an appointment.

Give Your Immune System a Boost

Our bodies are designed to fight infection, but they need to be properly cared for to do so. If you start feeling sick, make sure you:

• Get plenty of rest
• Stay well hydrated and nourished
• Reduce stressful activities such as work or high intensity exercise

Most of the time, taking these steps will help your body recover on its own and get you back to feeling well.

Fluids. Fluids. Fluids.

Fluids are key to your recovery because you’re losing a lot of water as your body fights off the infection, particularly when you have a fever. Dehydration makes your recovery all that more complicated. In addition to water, you can also try these fluids to supplement your hydration needs:

• Soups
• Broth
• Sports drinks

Manage Your Symptoms

While the best strategy for most winter respiratory viruses is to wait it out, that doesn’t mean you should be miserable throughout the recovery. Try some over the counter symptomatic relief (like nasal saline rinses, fever-reducing medicines and pain meds), which can help with aches, pains, congestion, coughing and other symptoms.

Natural and home remedies such as honey, aromatherapy and steamy showers/baths can all help make the recovery period a bit less unpleasant.

Do You Need to See Your Clinician?

Most cases of winter respiratory viruses should resolve on their own after a few days. But it’s important to know if something else is causing your illness. Signs that you may need medical attention include:

• Symptoms that don’t resolve after 7-10 days
• Chest pain and/or pressure
• Shortness of breath
• Confusion, lightheadedness, severe weakness

These symptoms could be signs that you need more medical guidance or attention. They also might point to an underlying medical condition in need of more advanced treatment. Either way, your care can help diagnose your condition and provide appropriate guidance.

And Remember, There’s Still Time for Prevention

There is still time to get your annual flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines and to protect yourself from illness by limiting your exposure to viral infections as much as possible. If you will be spending time with anyone who is sick or attending a crowded event, consider wearing a mask.