Why You Should Not Starve Yourself of Water When You Have a Cold, Runny Nose, or Cough

When you're suffering from a cold, runny nose, or cough, the last thing you might feel like doing is drinking lots of water. However, it is critically important that you stay hydrated during these times. Here’s why it’s crucial not to starve yourself of water and how drinking more water can actually help alleviate your symptoms.

The Importance of Hydration During Illness

Being sick is inherently dehydrating, primarily due to several factors:

You're more likely to breathe through your mouth, leading to increased insensible water loss. Your body may undergo fever, raising your metabolism and thus water loss through sweating even if you don’t feel it. Many illnesses lead to increased urination as your body attempts to flush out toxins. Your mucous membranes dry out, leading to discomfort and the environment for infections to thrive.

Hydration plays a vital role in your body’s ability to fight off the illness. Proper hydration supports your immune system, keeps your mucous membranes moist, and helps wash pathogens away from the membrane surface.

The Dangers of Dehydration

Dehydration is nothing to be taken lightly. Not only can it exacerbate your current symptoms, but it can also weaken your immune system and prolong your recovery time. When you're dehydrated, the mucus in your nasal passages and throat can become thick and dry, making it more difficult to breathe and potentially allowing bacteria to settle and multiply.

If you compromise on your water intake, it’s not just your quality of life that suffers. Dehydration can have serious health consequences, including:

Increased risk of infections. Muscle cramps and fatigue. Lowered blood pressure which can cause dizziness or fainting. Impaired cognitive function.

What to Do Instead

Instead of depriving yourself of water, focus on staying well-hydrated. Here are some tips to help you keep up your fluid intake during a cold, runny nose, or cough:

Drink plenty of water to keep your mucous membranes moist and to help flush out toxins. Save thirst by setting reminders to drink water every few hours. Consume hydrating foods such as soups, fruits, and vegetables. Drink warm fluids like herbal teas and warm broths to soothe your throat and keep you warm.

In conclusion, when you’re facing symptoms like a cold, runny nose, or cough, it is essential to stay hydrated rather than reduce your water intake. Staying well-hydrated can help alleviate your symptoms, support your body’s natural defenses, and aid in your recovery.