Hi kelly7552,
Even though there's really nothing that will "cure" a cold, early symptomatic treatment usually provides better relief and an easier course than waiting until it's full blown.
The affected individual should get plenty of rest, not over-exert themselves and drink lots of liquids, including hot ones like tea with honey. Blow the nose frequently and gently, and if the throat is sore gargle four times a day using a cup of warm water with a teaspoon of salt dissolved in it. Take hot, steamy showers. Sleep with the head elevated.
Decongestants such as a Sudafed product containing pseudoephedrine can be started anytime in the course of a cold. For the diver, a long-acting formulation, such a Sudafed 12 or 24 Hour, is prudent as it is best that the drug not "wear off" during a dive.
Unfortunately, flying often exacerbates the signs and symptoms of colds. This can be eased by keeping the throat moist and using saline nasal drops during the flight. OTC remedies such as Afrin and Neo-Synephrine 12-Hour can also provide relief, but they must be used only as directed, especially as regards period of use. While on the plane, equalize early, often and gently.
You also might find the following article from the Mar '08 issue of
Undercurrent (
Scuba Diving Magazine, Undercurrent Reviews Dive Resorts, Liveaboards, & Diving Gear) to be useful -->
“Shooting Saltwater Up Your Nose
Is your nose stuffed up enough that diving isn’t appealing, or even to the point where congestion may dangerously interfere with equalization of the ears?
It may sound a bit zany and gross, but the evidence, both published and anecdotal, largely supports the salubrious effects of saline irrigation on both nasal membrane drying and congestion (e.g., from long airplane flights, breathing hyper-dry scuba gasses and allergens). Such irrigation shrinks the mucus blanket and flushes out the excess, reducing nasal irritation and swelling.
There are scores of salt-based OTC nasal washes on the market such as Sinucleanse, BreathEase and an array of NeilMed products. Many come with a soft syringe. Or you can purchase special tips that attach to oral hygiene devices (e.g., the WaterPik NA-2 Gentle Sinus Rinse).
Many divers choose a simple home remedy that is cheaper and works just as well. Boil two cups of tap water for 10 minutes, stir in one teaspoon of salt (refined sea salt is recommended to avoid additives) and one-quarter teaspoon of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate). Adding more salt than recommended can do more harm than good, so don’t overdo it.
After the brew has cooled to lukewarm, draw it into a clean nasal or ear syringe until full, then lean over the sink, squeeze gently and allow the solution to run through the nasal passages. Once the liquid has drained from the nose, sniff in, spit out and then gently blow your nose. Repeat with the other nostril. Again, don’t overdo it - - one or two treatments a day should be sufficient. And go make your next dive. - -
Doc Vikingo”
Of course if the diver arrives at her destination and doesn't feel well enough to dive safely, she shouldn't. Excessive congestion during a dive can lead to several painful types of "squeeze" and even barotrauma with lasting damage.
Regards,
DocVikingo
This is educational only and does not constitute or imply a doctor-patient relationship. It is not medical advice to you or any other individual and should not be construed as such. Consult with your physician before diving.
