Treating the common cold

The common cold is a viral disease most frequently caused by the rhinovirus and accompanied by inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, and eyes.

Symptoms of a common cold include nasal obstruction and drainage, sore throat, hoarseness, cough, fever and headache. Many people with a cold feel tired and achy.

Chinese medicine emphasizes that people get colds due to a weak immune system. They point out that everyone is exposed to cold viruses, but not everyone gets every cold. The difference seems to be in the ability of the immune system to fight infection. Prevention focuses on strengthening the immune system and reduces stress by acupuncture, and making sure the patient gets regular moderate exercise.

Acupuncture treatment is used to promote the body’s immune system and constrict the blood flow to the vessels in the nose. This can shrink the tissue, reduce congestion, and open inflamed nasal passages, making breathing easier.