Feeling a tiny itch in your throat or experiencing mild cold symptoms? While it’s common to catch a cold, there are proactive steps you can take to prevent it from becoming more severe. Acting quickly at the first sign can make a significant difference in how long and how bad your cold lasts. By addressing symptoms early, you can navigate the cold season more comfortably and stay healthier throughout the winter.

Recognizing the early indicators of a cold is essential for effective management. Common initial symptoms include an itchy throat, a runny nose, and burning eyes. These mild signs often precede more severe symptoms like persistent coughs and congestion. Being aware of these early warning signs allows you to take action before the cold fully develops, potentially reducing its impact on your daily life.

Dr. Shireen, a general practitioner with the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK, shared an easy yet effective health tip to combat colds this winter. In a viral TikTok video with nearly 2 million views, she emphasized the importance of taking vitamin C and zinc at the first sign of a cold. Her advice is straightforward: as soon as you notice symptoms like an itchy throat or runny nose, start taking these supplements to help reduce the severity and duration of the illness.

Vitamin C and zinc are widely recognized for their immune-boosting properties. These supplements can be easily found in tablet form, and many are designed to dissolve in water for convenient consumption. By incorporating vitamin C and zinc into your daily routine when you first feel under the weather, you can support your body’s natural defenses. This proactive approach helps to mitigate the symptoms and potentially shorten the length of your cold.

Recent studies support the effectiveness of vitamin C and zinc in managing cold symptoms. A December 2023 study in BMC Public Health found that vitamin C can shorten the duration of common colds, especially in cases of severe symptoms. Additionally, an April 2020 study in the American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene highlighted that zinc supplementation may reduce the duration of a cold by over two days. These findings reinforce the practical advice shared by Dr. Shireen.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the current respiratory virus activity is low across the nation. They anticipate that vaccination efforts will play a crucial role in preventing hospitalizations related to COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. While the number of peak hospitalizations this season may be similar or lower compared to last year, staying informed and taking preventive measures like supplementation can further protect your health during the fall and winter months.

While it’s impossible to completely avoid catching a cold, taking proactive steps can significantly reduce its impact. By recognizing early symptoms and supplementing with vitamin C and zinc, you can effectively shorten the duration and lessen the severity of your cold. Combined with staying informed through reliable sources like the CDC and maintaining good health practices, you can navigate the cold season with greater ease and comfort.