2023-12-28 08:03:03
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The cold wave is in full swing. Anyone who is sick wants to get back on their feet as soon as possible. To achieve this, an expert recommends structure.
Cold viruses paralyze huge numbers of people at regular intervals. A cold may usually be harmless. But while you’re sick at home, you feel miserable and, depending on the severity of the infection, everyday life can be extremely stressful. In this case, it’s a good idea to take it easy. Are you one of those people who really let themselves down during their illness? Then you probably skip the daily shower, maybe only brush your teeth once a day and eat whatever you feel like.
David Rösgen, assistant doctor at the Institute of General Medicine at the LMU Munich, advocates not letting yourself down completely: “Especially with illnesses that may last for weeks, you should also pay attention to your mental health. And that includes structuring your day despite illness.” In an interview with the South German newspaper He gives examples: Don’t neglect your personal hygiene in the morning, pursue a hobby like drawing in the morning, cook your favorite dish at lunch and make phone calls in the evening.
Sufficient sleep allows you to recover more quickly
However, you should always be careful not to overexert yourself. So don’t do anything that will further weaken your body – it’s busy enough fighting the infection. Don’t keep yourself awake artificially either. Because when you sleep, the body regenerates itself and the immune system also benefits – on a large scale. As a press release from the University Hospital of Tübingen shows, the activity of the so-called T cells decreases following just three hours without sleep. These are white blood cells that are responsible for fighting pathogens.
Anyone who is sick should ensure good oral hygiene. © Imago
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Not only does getting enough sleep, brushing your teeth also speeds up recovery. “Brushing your teeth is particularly important when you have a cold because the weakened immune system makes it easier for bacteria to multiply in the mouth and lead to tonsillitis.” Anyone who neglects oral hygiene runs the risk of a bacterial infection joining the viral infection.
Exercise only if there are minor complaints
When it comes to exercise, you shouldn’t overdo it when you have a cold. “So that even a mild infection, with symptoms such as a runny nose, cough and a weakened immune system, does not turn into inflammation of the heart muscle, we should give our bodies enough rest and time to regenerate,” says Dr. Nicolai Schineis, cardiologist in Bayreuth. On his website he recommends: “If you are only bothered by a slight cold, there is nothing wrong with moderate exercise. But if you also feel weak and listless, then it’s better to avoid your sports shoes. If the cold has progressed and you also suffer from fever and body aches, you should definitely go to bed.”
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This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Our editorial team is not allowed to answer individual questions regarding medical conditions.
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