How to cure a cold before a flight?

Taking Flight With a Cold: Managing Symptoms for a Smoother Journey

Nobody wants to be sick, least of all when they’re about to embark on a journey. Catching a cold before a flight can turn an exciting trip into a miserable experience, with stuffy noses, ear pressure, and a general feeling of unwellness amplified by the dry cabin air and altitude changes. While you can’t magically banish a cold overnight, there are practical steps you can take to manage your symptoms and make your flight more bearable.

Before You Even Reach the Airport:

• Hydration is Key: Start hydrating intensely in the days leading up to your flight. Drink plenty of water, herbal teas (ginger and lemon are excellent), and avoid sugary drinks that can dehydrate you further. Well-hydrated mucus is thinner and easier to clear, helping alleviate congestion.

• Boost Your Immune System (If Possible): While a last-minute immune boost won’t cure your cold, things like Vitamin C supplements and a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help support your body’s natural defenses.

• Rest Up: Prioritize sleep. Your body needs rest to fight off the cold. Skimping on sleep will only exacerbate your symptoms and make you feel worse on the flight.

Navigating the Flight: A Symptom Management Strategy

• Decongestant Defense: Over-the-counter decongestants, in the form of nasal sprays or oral medications, can be a lifesaver. However, use them sparingly and strictly according to the instructions. Nasal sprays can cause rebound congestion if used for too long, making the problem worse. Take your first dose about an hour before boarding to allow it to take effect before take-off.

• Pressure Relief for Ears: The changing air pressure during takeoff and landing can cause significant ear pain, especially when you have a cold. Try these techniques to equalize the pressure:

  • Yawning and Swallowing: Actively yawn and swallow frequently. This helps open the Eustachian tubes and equalize pressure.
  • The Valsalva Maneuver: Gently pinch your nose, close your mouth, and try to blow air out of your nose. This forces air into the Eustachian tubes. Be gentle; forceful blowing can be harmful.
  • Sucking on Hard Candy or Chewing Gum: These activities encourage swallowing and help regulate pressure.

• Warmth and Comfort: A small heat pack placed on your sinuses can help alleviate pressure and congestion. Similarly, a warm compress applied to your forehead can ease headaches associated with a cold.

• Consider Earplugs: Specially designed earplugs for flying can help regulate air pressure and reduce discomfort during takeoff and landing. They won’t cure your cold, but they can provide a welcome buffer against the pressure changes.

• Stay Hydrated Onboard: Airplane cabins are notoriously dry. Continue drinking plenty of water throughout the flight to prevent dehydration and keep your sinuses moist.

• Be Considerate of Others: Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Use tissues and dispose of them properly. Hand sanitizer is your friend.

When to Consult a Doctor:

While these tips can help manage your cold symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical advice if:

• Your symptoms worsen despite your efforts.
• You develop a fever.
• You experience severe ear pain or dizziness.
• You have a history of ear problems or sinus infections.

Your doctor can determine if you have a more serious infection, such as a sinus infection or ear infection, and prescribe appropriate treatment. They may also advise against flying if your condition poses a risk to your health or the health of other passengers.

Flying with a cold isn’t ideal, but by taking proactive steps to manage your symptoms, you can make the journey more comfortable and minimize the impact on your trip. Remember to prioritize hydration, utilize over-the-counter remedies responsibly, and consult your doctor if necessary. With a little planning and preparation, you can hopefully take flight and arrive feeling as good as possible under the circumstances.