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Common cold is generally characterized by a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing and mild fever. Soreness of the throat, cough, muscle aches, appetite loss and headache may also occur. There may be thick or watery nasal discharge as well.
If your daughter is experiencing all these symptoms, then it is most likely that she has a cold. Rhinoviruses present in minuscule droplets present in the environment enter the human body and cause a cold. When these rhinoviruses penetrate the protective nasal lining, an immune reaction is triggered which results in headache and soreness of the throat. Breathing through the nose also becomes difficult. Since common cold is a viral infection, antibiotics are not effective in treating it. Some natural ways by which you can relieve the discomfort caused by a cold is through saline nasal drops which will ease the stuffiness. Also raise the level of moisture in the air through a humidifier. The rawness that occurs beneath the nose may be eased by application of petroleum jelly. Warm baths and warm compresses are also beneficial in alleviating congestion and headaches.
Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is another condition which occurs with symptoms that are similar to that of the common cold. Nasal congestion, runny nasal discharge, repeated sneezing, itching and irritation in the nose and eyes and tearing from the eyes are some of the main symptoms of hay fever. Seasonal hay fever is triggered by molds, grass, trees and ragweed pollen. Perennial hay fever is caused by allergens such as dust, smoke, hair, fur, feathers and dog saliva. When these allergens enter the body, an immune reaction is triggered and chemicals such as histamine are released, resulting in the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
In case of allergic rhinitis, it is important to identify the trigger and then avoid it. Staying indoors on days of high pollen count will help to prevent attacks of hay fever. Using an air conditioner indoors will also help to filter the allergens from the air that you breathe. Paint, insecticides and other chemicals may also trigger allergic reactions and staying away from them is advisable. Giving the individual a drink of boiled grapefruit, lemon and honey is also beneficial. Nasal irritation may be eased by applying petroleum jelly inside the nose. Steam inhalation also helps to clear up a stuffy nose and make breathing easier. Add herbs such as chamomile to the boiling water and then allow the individual to inhale the vapors arising from it.
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