Although the common cold is not life threatening, it can cause a disruption in your daily routine, sleep and even work productivity. Prevention is key.
Hand Washing Routine
Always wash your hands before eating, after your children play outside and whenever coming home after being in public. Germs are everywhere and simply by washing your hands, you can prevent the common cold. It’s common knowledge that washing your hands often and well is the best way to prevent disease transmission, but unfortunately too many simply rinse with running water while ignoring the importance of soaping up. Proper hand washing should take at least 20 seconds of thorough soap scrubbing. According to Global Handwashing, germs than can cause diseases lodge in dirt, grease, and the natural oils on hands. Water alone does not dislodge them, but adding soap helps break down germ-carrying oils, and soap facilitates rubbing and friction which can remove germs form the hands and can then be rinsed away with water. Hand sanitizer can help for on-the-go cleanliness.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water! Staying hydrated is vital to staying healthy. Make sure your children are drinking at least 6-8 cups of water per day; and remember to replace lost sweat with extra liquids. A healthy diet and proper hydration keep your body’s immune system functioning efficiently. Staying hydrated also goes a long way in maintaining long-term health.
Be Aware
When you’re in public there’s no doubt you will come in contact with some foreign viruses. If you’re in a crowded public area, be sure to take extra care of other people. Colds are contagious so be sure to avoid sneezers and coughers at all costs; wash your hands immediately after being in contact with an individual who may be ill.
Good Night’s Sleep
Make sure your children get a good night’s sleep. A recent study showed that those who get less than the recommended 7 hours of sleep (10 hours for children) are more likely to become ill. Sleep is important for everyone and critical for your body to recover.
Visit Questcare Medical Clinic
If you have cold symptoms that won’t go away, it could be allergies or something worse han just a cold to talk with a physician about lessening symptoms, contact Questcare Medical Clinic for information about our locations and hours.