From The Straits Times    |

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A dry, sore throat and a persistent cough can be a real mood dampener especially when it hits during the festive season, when you are on-the-go or worse… when you are on holiday. Besides seeing the doctor, what can you do to make it better so you can still go about your work or enjoy your social activities normally? Here are five ways to soothe your sore throat and lessen the coughing:

 

1. Drink lots of plain water

And we mean LOTS! Making sure you stay hydrated is one of the best ways to heal faster when you have a bad cough and flu. This helps to replenish lost fluids, and also soothes your dry throat. Try to take warm water, instead of hot or cold, as it’s the most soothing temperature for your body.

 

2. Gargle your mouth

Do this with warm salt water: Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Gargle your mouth with it for about 10 to 15 secs. Do this three to four times a day in regular intervals, or when needed.

 

3. Avoid air-conditioning

Stay out of air-conditioned areas and places with dry air as this can irritate your throat further. If you stay home, don’t switch on the air-conditioner; instead, open up the windows for fresh air and use a fan if it’s a warm day.

 

4. Nourish your lungs…

… with a traditional remedy like Nin Jiom Pei Pa Koa to ease coughing and sore throat. Dilute a spoonful of Nin Jiom Pei Pa Koa (No Sugar Added formula) in plain warm water and drink it to help relieve throat discomfort and hoarseness. Or, simply swallow the syrup slowly from a pack of Pei Pa Koa’s Convenient Packs for quick relief (individual response varies) when on-the-go or mix one pack with a glass of water to drink. Available at all leading supermarkets and personal care stores.

 

5. Get plenty of rest

Make sure you rest well and get adequate sleep (it’s best to sleep early and wake up early the next morning than to sleep late and wake up late). Try not to do any strenuous activities including exercise and cancel any entertainment as well (especially that karaoke session you have planned!).

Consult your GP if your cough continues to persist, as it could be signs of a viral infection or disease. 

This article was first published on The Singapore Women’s Weekly.

 

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