fighting a cold while on dialysis?

[sullidog]

I have a head/chest cold right now, it's been going on for three days now, anyone know what would be good for a dialysis patient to help rid of this thing?
Troy

[Nephrologista]

I like to recommend NeilMed sinus rinse.  It's a squeeze bottle you fill with distilled water, pour in a premixed packet of salt and baking soda, and use the squeeze bottle to push all that salt water up your nose and out the other side.  It washes away all the congestion, it's drug free, and you can do it as often as you need to get relief.

The antihistamines can make you thirsty and raise your blood pressure, so this is a nice alternative.

[ardyce]

Nephrologista,

Thank You Neplrologista!  A doctor that believes in alternative medicine!

sullidog,

This does really clears a person up.  I have tried it and it works!

[FindingNeverland]

I get chronic sinus infections and last year I was so congested that no matter how much I blew my nose I just couldn't breath, my mom found this nasal spray with pepper in it and suggested I try it because it did wonders for her. It stung pretty bad at first I'll be honest, but then everything came running out, cleared me right up and now I keep some handy. Probably sounds bizzare but it worked. I also take Coricidin.

[RightSide]

The best thing to boost the immune system is vitamin D.

Ask your neph if you could take some more vitamin D while you're ill.

Though I agree with the other poster that nasal irrigation is the best way to control symptoms.

[RightSide]

One other suggestion.

When it comes to nasal irrigation, some folks swear by Alkalol (not to be confused with "alcohol").  Alkalol is an all-natural mucus solvent.

http://www.alkalolcompany.com/index.php

I find it can be too strong, unless I really dilute it down.

[kitkatz]

Recommend if you need meds, Benadryl for the sinuses; plus Tylenol for pain.