Once a scratchy throat and runny nose appear, it is already too late to completely stop a cold from taking hold, according to Nina Lutz. While the infection cannot be halted entirely after the first symptoms emerge, simple measures like proper hydration and rest can make the illness more manageable, 20min.ch reported.
Why Common Remedies Fail to Stop an Infection
Many people turn to home remedies, vitamin C, or ginger at the first sign of sickness in hopes of aborting the virus. However, Nina Lutz states that ginger has no solid scientific proof supporting its effectiveness against colds, and vitamin C shows little effect once symptoms have already developed. A separate study cited by 20min.ch reached a similar conclusion, indicating that starting vitamin C after onset does not reliably reduce a cold’s duration or intensity.
Does Zinc Actually Reduce Cold Duration?
Zinc stands out as one of the few interventions with a potential effect, according to Nina Lutz, who notes that taking zinc might reduce the duration of a cold if started early enough, ideally within the first 24 hours. However, users should not expect dramatic results, and the mineral can cause unpleasant side effects such as taste disturbances. A 2024 review examining 34 studies with a total of 8,526 participants concluded that zinc might slightly shorten an established cold, though researchers rated the available evidence as low reliability.
How Do You Distinguish a Cold from the Flu?
A cold develops gradually, starting with a scratchy throat before a runny nose and a mild cough appear a few days later, while fever is rare and usually moderate. In contrast, the flu strikes abruptly within hours, bringing high fever, severe muscle and joint pain, chills, exhaustion, and a persistent dry cough. Recovery from the flu demands significantly more time than a standard cold, which typically improves after about a week.
What Medications and Methods Relieve Symptoms?
When symptoms leave a person feeling unwell, targeted relief helps make the illness bearable rather than shortening its duration. Nina Lutz recommends paracetamol or similar medications to ease sore throats and headaches, alongside nasal rinses to clear congestion. These treatments target individual discomforts rather than fighting the underlying virus directly.
Does the 24-Hour Cold Management Routine Work?
Prof. Ron Eccles of Cardiff University previously designed a 24-hour schedule for managing early cold symptoms, which includes taking hot showers, eating vitamin-rich breakfasts, taking walks, and using inhalations. When evaluated by Dr. Silvio Brugger, chief physician at the Clinic for Infectious Diseases and Hospital Hygiene at the University Hospital Zurich, he noted that the scientific evidence supporting this method to completely ward off a cold is extremely weak. Nevertheless, Dr. Brugger pointed out that many of these habits are safe and promote general well-being.
When Should You See a Doctor for a Cold?
Mild throat irritation does not necessarily prevent someone from working, but Nina Lutz advises staying home and avoiding sports if fever or severe fatigue occurs. Medical consultation is necessary if breathing difficulties or chest pains develop, or if symptoms initially improve before a fever returns accompanied by a cough or severe headaches, which can signal a secondary bacterial infection.