The sore throat, cough, and general fatigue often associated with the common cold will ruin anyone’s day. Fortunately, you can take some steps to make yourself less miserable while your cold lasts. Here’s how to get a little more comfortable until it’s finally gone using innovative apps, online resources, and gadgets.
About the common cold
Unlike the more serious flu, the common cold typically includes mild symptoms that go away on their own after about a week, according to the mayo clinic. Coughing, sneezing, congestion, sore throat, and mild body aches are some of the typical symptoms.
Also, there’s a reason it’s called common. The average adult catches two to three colds over the course of a year, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.. Chances are high that you will have to deal with a cold at some point.
Although there is no cure, you can take some steps to feel a little better while your cold runs its course. If any of the symptoms worsen or last for more than a week, see your doctor for a check-up.
1. Stay hydrated with water reminder apps
Drinking plenty of water, decaffeinated tea and broth can help you stay hydrated when you have a cold, according to WebMD. If you need a little help remembering to keep up with your fluid intake, then the best water reminder apps for Android will do the trick.
If you are preparing a lot of hot drinks, then a smart kitchen appliance like the COSORI Smart Kettle is helpful to dial in your ideal temperature. It can be heated to 180 degrees for the perfect cup of green tea, as well as 212 degrees for black tea and other beverages.
For an extra relaxing treat, make a cup of fresh ginger tea using a recipe from YouTuber Banglar Rannaghor. Just simmer some ginger and other hot spices with black tea to drink until you feel a little better. (Also, the steam is lovely because it helps open up your sinuses a bit.) Try both versions of the recipe to find your new favorite hot drink.
2. Rest well with wearable technology
Getting enough rest is a crucial part of recovering from a cold. In fact, it’s quite common (and even helpful) to get some sleep during the day when you have a cold, according to health line. Give yourself permission to spend as much time as you need on the couch or in bed.
However, you may need a little help falling asleep, even when fatigued from a cold. If your sleeping space is a bit bright, try using a smart sleep mask to create a more relaxing environment. Plus, listen to a relaxing soundscape app to make falling asleep easier. By creating a quiet, dark space to rest, you’ll have everything you need to get some sleep. (Well, having an extra box of tissues nearby is probably a good idea, too.)
3. Make it easier to breathe with a humidifier
One of the most frustrating parts of dealing with a cold is the way it interferes with your ability to breathe. Fortunately, saline rinses and decongestants can help you breathe a little more freely when you have a stuffy nose. Plus, investing in a smart humidifier with cool or warm mist can improve the air quality in your room and alleviate a dry throat. These devices can save your life if the dry air makes your throat feel even worse.
4. Move (just a little)
For many people, body aches and general muscle stiffness are uncomfortable side effects of coming down with a cold. Try a very gentle stretching routine, such as recovery yoga from SarahBethYoga. Even slight movements can help provide some relief, so don’t overexert yourself while you’re sick.
5. Give yourself a mental break
As much as possible, try to refrain from pushing yourself too hard while you’re recovering from a cold. If you need to take time off work or school, use a few strategies to prevent sick days from making you late at work. Automatic email responses are great for this.
Play some relaxing mobile games to pass the time, or catch up on the best shows to binge-watch on Netflix. It’s a good time to allow yourself a little escapism while you rest, so give yourself a chance to let go of your typical stress.
6. Stock up on calming foods
If you’re up for it, try some of the best apps for healthy soup recipes. A big batch of fresh tomato basil soup might be just the thing to wake up your taste buds when you’re feeling a little under the weather.
If you’re staying home while you recover, then a grocery delivery app can bring the ingredients directly to you. It’s a nice bonus for anyone avoiding the crowds and saving themselves from cold germs. They are also great for handing out cough drops, extra tissues, or anything else you need while you recover.
If cooking seems like too much effort, scroll through the best food delivery apps for your area until something strikes your fancy. Having food delivered to you when you’re unwell definitely counts as a form of self-care.
7. Download cold and flu season apps
Track your symptoms, set medication reminders, and schedule telemedicine appointments with the best iPhone apps for cold and flu season. You can even control the spread of illnesses like the flu with the Lysol Germ-Cast app. It’s an easy way to stay up-to-date with any information you need regarding your cold and its treatment.
Get over your cold with the help of technology
Nobody likes to get sick, but there are a few ways to make your recovery time a little more comfortable and enjoyable. Food delivery apps, hot drinks, humidifiers, and some fascinating TV shows can make all the difference. By taking it easy for a while, your body will have a chance to fight the virus. In a few days, the cold will pass and you can return to your usual routine.