Has a cold or flu got you down? Take heart. No matter how poorly you feel right now, these persistent viruses eventually run their course. Be sure to take care of yourself properly; eat well, get lots of rest, and take an over the counter flu medicine. You can also monitor the signs that your health is improving.
Increased Energy Levels
Cases of flu and colds typically leave everyone feeling lethargic. You are not alone if you find yourself lying on the couch with a box of tissues for company. One of the early signs of recovery is that your former energy levels start to return.
It’s important that you don’t get too carried away. Gradually resume your activities over time. Your body still needs rest. If some symptoms are still lingering, try a cold medicine without acetaminophen to feel better.
Return Of Sense Of Smell & Taste
Blocked nasal passages and stuffy sinuses will kibosh your sense of smell. Because your sense of taste requires your nose to assist it, your ability to taste and enjoy your food is also impacted. In turn, your appetite may be severely diminished during the duration of your cold or flu.
If you can smell that pot of tea or taste your breakfast toast, that’s a good sign. That means your nasal passages are clearing up and you are returning to health. You can always use a homeopathic decongestant to help.
Changes in Mucus Color
Yellow or green mucus when you are sick means that your body is doing its job. The color comes from the white blood cells that have been battling the cold or flu virus in your body. After they die, they pass out of your system through your mucus.
As your cold or flu weakens and your body begins to recover, fewer white blood cells are needed. Therefore your mucus gradually loses its color and runs more clear. When you blow your nose, take a peek at the tissue. A mucus that gets progressively clearer is a good sign.
Decrease in Severity of Aches and Pains
Both the cold and the flu can make you miserable, but the flu, in particular, has some symptoms that affect the whole body. These may include:
- Muscle and body aches
- Sore throat
- Fever and chills
- Headache
The best thing you can do is to hunker down somewhere comfortable, take a painkiller, and sleep as much as possible. These symptoms can last anywhere from a couple of days to a week.
When you notice that your aches have subsided and the chills have receded, you can assume you are at the end of your illness. You should still take it easy for a few days. Allow your body time to fully recover before you jump back into your normal level of activity.
Prepare for cold and flu season in advance with remedies and health aides that work. Talk to your healthcare provider and research online to learn which products are the right ones for you and your family.
