What is a Head Cold?
Head cold is a common cold, which is focused on the head and face region. In a head cold, the symptoms are severe in the region of head and face. The cause of a head cold is a viral infection.
How Long Does a Head Cold Last?
A head cold commonly lasts for about a week to 10 days. In some patients, a head cold can last for longer periods of time too. The incubation period of a head cold is about 3 days after which the symptoms appear.
What to Take for a Head Cold?
A head cold is caused by a virus and for this reason medications are not of much help except to manage the symptoms of a head cold. Since viral infection is the cause of head cold, antibiotics will not be effective. There are some steps which can be undertaken to alleviate the symptoms of head cold:
Take Plenty of Fluids When Suffering From Head Cold: It is important to stay hydrated, as it will loosen the congestion in the sinuses and nose along with soothing the throat. Water and diluted juices can be taken during a head cold. Warm liquids, such as broth, tea and soup are also beneficial to take when suffering from a head cold. Alcohol and caffeine should not be taken during a head cold.
Medications to Take in a Head Cold: Medications, such as pain relievers consisting of acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be taken in a head cold to combat symptoms such as headache, fever and sore throat.
Rest: It is important to take adequate rest so the body can heal when suffering from a head cold.
Supplements to Take For Head Cold: Supplements such as vitamin C, zinc and Echinacea can also be taken for a head cold to alleviate its symptoms.
Saline Nasal Sprays: The use of saline nasal sprays in a head cold helps in loosening the mucus in the nose; however, prolonged use of nasal sprays should be avoided.
Saltwater Gargle: Gargling with a lukewarm saltwater solution helps in soothing the sore throat of a head cold.
Humidifiers or Vaporizers: These help by instilling moisture to the air thus easing the congestion and coughing from a head cold. The use of these devices also allows the patient with a head cold to sleep better during the night. However, it is important to clean humidifiers and vaporizers to discourage the growth of mold and microbes.
