How to get better if suffering from 'brutal' cold sweeping UK that's 'worse than any winter bug'
It seems as if the whole of the UK is feeling the effects of the chilly season big time this year with a cold that's 'worse than any winter bug'.
Whether you're bundled in the chunkiest scarf ever, popping Strepsils or up to your nose in Kleenex from all the relentless sniffling - it seems many of us Brits are all in the same boat when it comes to our current state of health.
But, rest assured, there's some actually pretty useful things to know if you're wanting to blast that bothersome cold away - and it doesn't involve an ounce of chicken soup.
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One person recently shared their experience of the illness and nasty symptoms on Reddit and revealed the sickness left them feeling beyond poorly for 'weeks' on end.
They penned: "Just coming off the back end of a brutal cold that's lasted about three weeks, during which my sinuses have been almost completely closed, relaxing only for brief periods while also producing mucus at an alarming rate.
"Emerging from my bed this morning, I could breathe through my nose again. I could smell things.
"It still feels like somebody poured Ready Brek into the back of my face, but it's finally over and life is beautiful again."
"Just resurfaced from a five hour midday nap," shared another. "I feel like my face has been hit with a shovel, I’m still tired, coughing, sneezing, can only breathe out of my mouth. Fun times."
Fun times indeed.
So, if you happen to be part of the unlucky lot to be plagued with this winter cold, the NHS has offered some helpful advice on how to look after yourself.
The NHS recommends you get plenty of rest and sleep alongside keeping hydrated with lots of water to combat any dehydration.
If your throat feels rough as toast then adults can also gargle salt water to help soothe it.
It adds: "If you have a high temperature or you do not feel well enough to do your normal activities, try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people until you feel better."
The NHS also suggests speaking to a pharmacist about cold and flu medicines, including decongestants and painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Watching a feel-good Christmas rom-com - or five - in your favourite cosy jammies also won't hurt...
Rhiannon Ingle