There’s plenty to love about winter. From the holiday cheer to getting cozy with a warm blanket, it’s hard to deny that there’s something special about this time of year. However, as lovely as winter is, it’s also cold and flu season. One of the best remedies to get better after catching a bug is to rest, but if you’ve ever been sick before then you know how impossible it can feel to fall and stay asleep. So what’s one to do when fever or congestion is keeping you up all night? Here’s a guide to help you deal with unpleasant symptoms so you can finally get a good night’s rest on your Orange County mattress.
Dealing with a stuffy nose
Congestion is one of the biggest reasons why sleeping is difficult when sick. After all, it’s tough to relax when you can’t breathe well. Here are some tips to help clear your nasal passages before bed.
Take a hot shower and run a humidifier
The key here is steam! Not only does it moisturize your nasal passages, but it also helps to loosen them up to allow for more airflow, as well as soothe dry and irritated tissue in the nose and throat. A shower is also a great way to soothe achy muscles and relax before bed.
Use a decongestant nasal spray
These types of medications are administered directly into your nasal passage and are meant to help relieve stuffy noses. Nasal sprays can be helpful, however, most aren’t suited for frequent use, so make sure you’re carefully following the instructions listed on your spray.
Use nasal strips
Nasal strips are useful when dealing with congestion because they physically open up your nose to allow more air in. Just place the sticky strip right across your nose bridge and you’re all set! What’s even better is that these strips aren’t medicated or invasive, so you can comfortably wear them all night long.
Sleep in a propped up position- Sleeping in a propped position allows your sinuses to drain themselves naturally so there’s less buildup to make you feel stuffy. Use a wedge pillow, or strategically place pillows in a wedge formation, to create a gentle, comfortable slope for your neck.
More tips and tricks
Of course, a stuffy nose isn’t the only culprit for bad sleep when you’re sick. Here are other tips that may help you deal with other symptoms and sleep better at night on your Orange County mattress.
Take medicine
Medicine is a great way to ease any uncomfortable symptoms that may be making it difficult to sleep. Take note of what symptoms you’re experiencing to find a medicine that best suits your needs. This includes cough syrups, throat sprays, salves, lozenges, and other pain relievers.
Leave the alcohol alone
A lot of people turn to alcohol when they’re sick because they believe the drowsy feeling will lull them to sleep. In reality, alcohol can actually worsen your symptoms as it can dehydrate you, react poorly with any other medication in your system, and further inflame your sinuses. Skip the alcohol and opt for something that can actually help you, like tea (refer to tip 3).
Drink tea
If you’re looking for a drink to suppress your symptoms, try tea. A cup of hot (decaffeinated) tea can soothe your sinuses, throat, and chest, reducing the feelings of congestion, a sore throat, and coughing. Some teas even have relaxation properties that may put you in a calm state so sleep comes easier to you, like lemon balm and chamomile tea. Make sure you add honey and lemon too! These ingredients are antibacterial and can help break down mucus, boost your immune system, and provide pain relief.
Getting enough sleep when you’re sick is necessary to get better. It helps to better strengthen your immune system so your body can fight off that pesky virus. The next time you’re sick, use these 7 tips to help you get more sleep on your Orange County mattress so you can get back to feeling like your best self faster. If your symptoms persist or get worse, schedule an appointment with your doctor so you can discuss your health and potential solutions.