Trixy Life

As a mom and a nurse, I have had my fair share of dealing with cold and flu season, and while my tips are not meant to replace medical advice, they can help alleviate symptoms and make you or your loved ones feel a little better. Be sure to follow your doctor’s guidance, but here are some things I have done over the years to help manage cold and flu at home.

The early years: building immune strength

When my children, Marco and Elisa, were younger, especially Elisa who started daycare at a year and a half, it seemed like she was always coming home sick. As a nurse, I was no stranger to infections, but having your child constantly under the weather can be exhausting. A colleague once suggested giving her cycles of echinacea and rosehip drops before the start of autumn and spring to help boost her immunity. I tried it, and from that point on, Elisa barely got sick for the rest of the year. Now, I don’t rely on these remedies as much, but I have noticed that, on average, my children tend to get sick less frequently than others.

Hydration is key

When dealing with cold or flu, one of the most important things I emphasize to both Marco, who’s now 15, and Elisa, who’s in college, is staying hydrated. Luckily, in Arizona, using water bottles is common practice, so it is easy to encourage them to keep one by their side and take sips throughout the day. I always recommend changing the water daily and washing the mouthpiece to avoid bacteria buildup.

For extra comfort, I suggest drinking warm liquids like herbal teas or warm water with honey and lemon. Elisa is managing her illness on her own at college, but I have reminded her to drink warm fluids and rest as much as possible, even if she can’t sleep all day like Marco.

Rest and warmth

One thing that is critical for recovery is rest. Marco has spent almost all of yesterday sleeping, and I believe it is the best way for the body to heal. Elisa, on the other hand, can’t afford to miss classes, so she is trying to rest in between. I have always told my kids that, if they can, they should prioritize sleep and keep warm in bed.

I also make sure they stay cozy by using extra blankets and keeping the room warm. If you can manage it, resting as much as possible is one of the most effective ways to fight off illness.

Related posts:

• Boosting your immune system: lessons from Elisa’s first college winter
• The hidden cost of sleep deprivation – how to recognize the signs and break the cycle
• 9 Ways to thrive during the short winter days

Clearing congestion: steam and inhalation

For congestion, I swear by steam inhalation. When they were little, I would boil water, mix in some baking soda, and let them breathe in the steam from the pot. This helps to open up their nasal passages. If you have an inhaler or a nebulizer, you can use saline and baking soda to achieve the same result. Deep breathing during these sessions helps clear the lungs and reduce the stuffiness in their noses. Even as teenagers, they still follow this tip because it works wonders.

Essential oils for relief

Another thing I have always used, especially when someone is sick, is essential oils. Eucalyptus and peppermint are my go-to oils, which help with congestion and create a soothing environment. I like to diffuse these oils around the house or add a few drops to the kids’ baths. Mixing in a bit of orange oil brings a refreshing scent and can also help lift their spirits.

Adding essential oils to their bath or diffusing them in their rooms during the day can help make breathing a little easier while promoting a relaxing atmosphere.

Honey: a natural soother

Honey has always been a staple in our home remedies, especially for a sore throat. I find that a spoonful of honey in a warm drink can soothe the throat and calm a cough. Before bed, I offer Marco some warm milk with honey to ease his throat, especially if he is coughing. I always opt for local, unprocessed honey, as I have heard it is beneficial for allergies and overall health.

Diet and nutrients during cold season

When someone in the family is under the weather, I like to focus on nourishing foods. I incorporate more soups and broths into our meals, especially chicken soup with vegetables, which is comforting and packed with nutrients. Broth-based soups are my go-to when someone isn’t feeling well because they are easy to digest and hydrating.

I also try to include foods rich in vitamin C, like oranges and grapefruits, which are great for boosting the immune system. While it is not a cure, it is one more step I take to help their bodies fight off the virus. During the colder months, citrus fruits are always on hand.

Understanding cold vs. flu

While colds and flu share many similarities, they have distinct symptoms. A cold tends to bring a runny nose, headache, and general heaviness in the head. The flu, however, often comes with a more severe cough, congestion, and higher fevers. In our family, the kids usually only have a high fever for one night, maybe two. I always make sure to differentiate between these illnesses and treat their symptoms accordingly.

If it is a head cold, I focus on clearing the nasal passages, while for chest congestion, I make sure they are getting lots of fluids and rest to alleviate the cough.

Other home remedies and traditions

Turmeric is another ingredient I use when my kids are sick. I add a pinch to their warm milk or even to soups. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can help the body recover faster from illness.

I also remember my childhood in Italy when my mother and grandmothers would insist on keeping our feet warm during illness. They’d have me wear thick socks to bed and drink plenty of warm teas to ward off the cold. Even now, I tell my kids to keep their feet warm when they are under the weather – it may be an old tradition, but it is something that brings me comfort and seems to help.

Encouraging independence and care

Now that my kids are older, it is been interesting to watch how they manage illness. Marco is a typical teenager and doesn’t even let me check his temperature anymore. Elisa, on the other hand, is handling things on her own at college. I offered for her to come home, but she insisted on staying and going to class. It is hard for a mom to step back, but it is also rewarding to see them become more independent.

These are just some of the things that have worked for us over the years. Remember, these are only tips for easing discomfort and not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Thanks for hanging out with me today!

See you next time.

Valentina