How to treat a cold caused by exposure to cold?

Written by Qiu Xin Hui
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Updated on January 17, 2025
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In traditional Chinese medicine, the common cold due to exposure to cold, also known as "wind-cold cold," is primarily caused by a decrease in the body's resistance, leading to the invasion of wind and cold. If the wind-cold is not expelled in time, symptoms such as nasal congestion, clear nasal discharge, sneezing, headache, and chills may arise. At this point, consuming warm and heating foods can help dispel the wind and cold, and relieve the body surface. One can drink ginger brown sugar water, as ginger effectively warms the middle, dispels cold, and expels wind, while brown sugar can enhance the body's resistance. Drinking it while it's hot causes the body to slightly heat up and sweat, which can quickly alleviate the symptoms of the cold due to exposure. (Please consult a professional physician before using any medication, and do not self-medicate.)

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How to clear phlegm for a baby with a cold?

There are several methods to help a baby with a cold expel phlegm, which are as follows: First, you can give the infant some Western or traditional Chinese medicines that help expel phlegm to aid the removal of mucus. Second, gently patting the baby's back can also facilitate the expulsion of phlegm. Third, if possible, using a phlegm suction device can help the baby expel phlegm. Fourth, administering nebulized medications that help expel and remove phlegm can be effective. Lastly, it's important to treat the cause of the baby's cold-related phlegm production. Most colds are caused by respiratory viral infections, so taking antiviral medications can be very effective. If the cold and phlegm persist, be aware of the possibility of a secondary bacterial infection, which, if present, may require antibiotic treatment. (Note: Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Which recovers faster, a cold caused by wind-heat or a cold caused by wind-cold?

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