Cough. Cough.

I have no voice today. I have The Cold.

Assuming that most of you (my one or two readers) also have The Cold, I decided to post the following, courtesy of CNN.com.

Cold remedies. What works:

• Water and other fluids like juice, clear broth or warm lemon water with honey help loosen congestion and prevent dehydration.
• Salt water. A saltwater gargle — 1/2 teaspoon salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water — can temporarily relieve a sore or scratchy throat.
  Saline nasal sprays to combat stuffiness and congestion. These don't have decongestants in them, so there are no rebound effects to deal with.
• Chicken soup. Oy. Really. Scientists have found it works as an anti-inflammatory by inhibiting the movement of neutrophils, immune systems cells that participate in the body's inflammatory response. (What I want to know is...how? And...why? What is it about chicken soup vs....say, Campbells ABC vegetable soup that inhibits the movement of neutrophils?) Second, it temporarily speeds up the movement of mucus through the nose, helping relieve congestion and limiting the amount of time viruses are in contact with the nose lining. Researchers at the University of Nebraska compared homemade chicken soup with canned versions and found that many, though not all, canned chicken soups worked just as well as soups made from scratch. (So quit your kvetching and eat your soup, already.)
• Over-the-counter cold medications. Nonprescription decongestants and pain relievers offer some symptom relief, but they won't prevent a cold or shorten its duration, and most have some side effects.
• Humidity. Cold viruses thrive in dry conditions — another reason why colds are more common in winter. Parched air also dries the mucous membranes, causing a stuffy nose and scratchy throat. A humidifier can add moisture to your home, but it can also add mold, fungi and bacteria if not cleaned properly. (Umm...eeew.)
  

I find it interesting to note that antibacterial wipes, soaps and gels are ineffective against colds, which are caused by a virus, not by bacteria. Along that same line, antibiotics (meaning: against bacteria, btw) are also ineffective. Most interesting (to me): The American College of Chest Physicians strongly discourages the use of Over The Counter cold medicines because they're not effective at treating the underlying cause of cough due to colds. In fact, some contain ingredients that may stop or diminish coughing, but the amounts are too small to do much good and may actually be harmful for children. The college has strongly recommended against using OTC cough syrups or cold medicines for any child younger than 14.

On that note, I'm going to go eat some chicken soup, drink some decaf tea. Feel well, dear reader (s). And, go wash your hands!