The sore throat is one of the most common health complaints. Classic symptoms include irritation, a ‘burning sensation’ at the back of the throat and pain when swallowing.
Most sore throats are caused by viral infections such as the cold or flu. Breathing polluted air, being exposed to pollens, moulds or pet dander as well as unhealthy lifestyle choices are also leading causes.
Open windows regularly to increase air ventilation. If air flows freely, exogenous pathogenic factors are less likely to stay indoors. In addition, ultraviolet rays from sunlight have a disinfecting effect.
We should exercise at least twice a week. Each exercise session needs to last for 30 minutes or more. The exercises need not be strenuous but should be regular and can include jogging, swimming and fast walking. These activities can improve physique, promote metabolism, relieve stress and enhance immunity.
Good living habits include washing your face with cold water and soaking the feet in hot water. The former can improve the body’s resistance to the cold and the latter can promote circulation and improve sleep quality. Also, pay attention to personal hygiene. Wash hands frequently, don’t spit in public places or share chopsticks and spoons.
It is important to have a balanced diet. If needed, we can take one vitamin pill containing the 100% Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA).
We should have at least seven hours of sleep every day and try to get into bed before 11pm. It is best to be in a deep sleep state between 11pm and 3am. During sleep, the body’s major organs and regulatory systems work actively to repair themselves for the next day.
In cold weather, most of us take hot baths. This reduces the body’s resistance and makes us more susceptible to the common cold and flu. To avoid this, take a shower using hot water and cold water alternately, or after taking a hot bath, take a short cold shower before drying off. These two methods can strengthen the body’s resistance.
Too much stress can reduce our immunity. With our immunity affected, it’s easier to catch a cold or suffer from influenza and other viral infections.
According to ‘The Medical Classic of the Yellow Emperor’, a classic in Chinese medicine, “If the right qi exists inside the body; evil cannot make disturbances”. In other words, if our body is fit, we will not be easily disturbed by exogenous pathogenic factors. This is why Chinese medicine emphasises ‘treating the health problem at the root’ to eliminate inflammation and detoxify or remove foreign toxic substances – to strengthen body conditions and immunity.
