Healthy For The Holidays. How to Avoid the Common Cold and Other Aliments

The holidays are a wonderful time but they can also be stressful. Don't let that stress lead to illness. Here are some great ways to fight off the common cold.

More than 200 different types of viruses can cause the common cold. Given that, it’s not surprising to know that there are millions of cases every year.

A respiratory infection, it often leads to coughing, sneezing, fatigue, and congestion. Depending on your health, these symptoms can last anywhere from 7 to 10 days.

Have a trip planned for the holidays? Want to know how to stay healthy while traveling? If so, you’re on the right page.

Because that’s what we’ll be talking about. Keep reading to learn more!

What's the Difference Between the Cold and the Flu?

The common cold and the flu are both caused by viruses. While they share a few common symptoms (e.g. sneezing, congestion), the latter tends to be more severe.

For one thing, it can lead to ear and sinus infections. High fevers are also more common. In some cases, it can even turn into pneumonia—an infection that affects the lungs.

5 Tips on How to Stay Healthy While Traveling 

Want to stay healthy for your upcoming trip? Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Wash Your Hands Often 

Regular handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Start by wetting your hands with running water. From there, add soap.

Lather your hands by rubbing them together. Make sure to get the back of your hands and between your fingers.

Scrub for at least 20 seconds before rinsing clean with water. Dry with a paper towel.

2. Avoid Touching Your Face 

Do not touch your face with unwashed hands. Why? The germs on your hands can easily enter your body through your eyes, nose, and mouth.

If you must touch your face, at least do it after washing your hands. Consider using hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

3. Get Enough Sleep 

A lack of sleep can affect your immune system. In fact, studies have shown that those who are sleep-deprived are much more likely to get sick.

For this reason, you want to make sure that you’re getting enough rest. Ideally, you want to aim for at least 7 hours.

This is supported by a system of medicine called Ayurveda, which has been used for over 5,000 years in India.

4. Disinfect "High Touch" Surfaces

Make a habit of disinfecting “high touch surfaces.” For example, it’s a good idea to disinfect light switches, elevator buttons, handrails, and doorknobs before touching them.

After all, germs can live on surfaces for several hours. You never know when they might be hitching a ride on your hands!

5. Keep Your Distance From Sick People 

This goes without saying but you want to keep a safe distance from those who’re sick. Avoid close contact such as shaking hands, hugging, or kissing.

Move away if someone's about to cough or sneeze. If necessary, wash your hands with soap and water.

Staying Healthy For the Holidays 

Hopefully, that gives you a better idea as to how to stay healthy while traveling. If anything, the most important thing is to wash your hands frequently!

Do you have any other tips that you'd like to share? Feel free to let us know in the comments below!