Staying healthy during winter: Tips to manage cold and cough
As Dhaka awaits the full onset of winter, households across the city are already grappling with a rise in cold and cough cases. The seasonal transition in Bangladesh often brings an uptick in respiratory illnesses, fueled by the increased activity of various viruses.
Bite-Sized: 9 tips to manage cold and cough during winter
Symptoms resembling pneumonia, including fever, cough, and breathing difficulties, are being reported, with most patients recovering through treatment.
However, individuals with pre-existing conditions such as asthma or COPD are experiencing more severe complications. Experts emphasise the need for precautionary measures to stay healthy during this vulnerable period.
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Dr Ashraful Islam Irfan, consultant (Medicine) of Dhaka Community Medical College Hospital has given tips to stay healthy during the onset of winter. They are:
What to do if you have a cold or cough
- For adults, if there is mild body discomfort along with cold and cough, paracetamol can be taken.
- Antihistamines can be used for colds.
- Home remedies such as drinking lukewarm water, inhaling steam, and consuming lemon juice can help.
- However, if the cough produces phlegm and the colour of the phlegm is yellow, consult a doctor and get a chest X-ray to confirm whether it's pneumonia. If pneumonia is diagnosed, hospital admission and treatment will be necessary.
Special care for children
- When children have a cold, they may struggle to breathe, cry due to a blocked nose, or refuse to drink milk. In such cases, nasal sprays can be effective. However, if the condition doesn't improve within 5–7 days, a chest X-ray should be done, and the child should be taken to a doctor.
- Nebulisers work well for children in such situations.
How to stay healthy
- In our country, air pollution is a significant issue, putting pressure on the lungs. Even a minor viral attack makes people ill. To avoid this, wear a mask when going outside to protect yourself from pollution.
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Protect children from getting cold.
