Since I stopped relying on medication for relatively minor illnesses (such as colds) I have noticed that they are of a greater intensity, over a shorter period of time. I would much prefer to suffer for a couple of days than feel less-than-perfect for a week or more.
The phases are the same, with the only difference being the way in which I respond to the symptoms.
The phases are :
| # | Name | Major symptoms | Duration |
| 1 | Initial signs | Partial loss of voice / sore throat | 12 hrs |
| 2 | Beginning | slight weakness / partial loss of voice / sore throat | 12 hrs |
| 3 | Major signs | slight weakness / sore throat / sneezing / occasional coughing | 24 hrs |
| 4 | Fighting | strong weakness / sore throat / running nose / high temperature | 24 hrs |
| 5 | Survival | strong weakness / running nose / wheezing | 24 hrs |
| 6 | Clearing | slight weakness / drying nose | 12 hrs |
| 7 | Recovery | slight weakness | 12 hrs |
Throughout these phases, I respond by :
- avoiding alcohol, caffeine (other than small amounts found in some teas), sugar, dairy products, smoke-filled environments
- reducing consumption of meat and soy products
- increasing daily supplementation of Vitamin C from 1750mg to around 6250mg (spread throughout day)
- increasing consumption of water, fruit juice (such as the pineapple, orange and ginger concoction pictured) and herbal teas
- cleaning all clothes, towels and bed sheets more frequently than usual
- increasing rest – I generally sleep 4-5 hours per night, and this may increase to as much as 12-14 (of reduced quality due to high temperature and poor breathing)
I particularly avoid the use of medications of any kind (during this period specifically – not all the time), and generally do not seek additional medical advice. I tend to eat less – although more frequently. This generally takes the form of fresh fruit, soups, rice crackers and simple pasta meals.
Notes for next time :
As much as I would like to think that staying healthy will prevent the dreaded cold from ever making a comeback, that’s somewhat unlikely. My aim now is to reduce the frequency, severity and duration (by at least 24 hours) of attacks.
A major part of this is to strengthen the immune system immediately following the most severe phases of the illness; the time when you feel well enough to return to life-as-usual but are not yet back to full strength.
During this period I still avoid anything mucus-forming (notably dairy products), and eat mainly hot (yang) foods such as chili, garlic, ginger, honey, onions and a small amount of red meat. Soups such as the tasty, light and cleansing Chicken and Ginseng Soup (a personal favorite, whether ill or not) are also good.
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