The Link Between Stress and Colds and Flu
Stress - it's a part of our everyday lives. Stress can take a toll on our overall well-being, whether it's work pressures, traffic jams, personal challenges, or hectic schedules. But did you know that stress can also impact our immune system and make us more susceptible to colds and flu?1a
When stress takes hold, our bodies respond by triggering a sequence of hormonal changes and physiological responses (known as the "fight-or-flight" response) 2a and stress can take a toll on the body2b.
Cepacol®, the brand known for its sore throat lozenges and hot medication, explores the link between stress and our vulnerability to respiratory infections and provides insights into managing stress for a healthier immune system.
How stress can affect the immune system
Inflammation and Immune Response
Stress triggers inflammation as our immune system kicks into high gear to counter the perceived threat. Inflammation due to ongoing stress disrupts the immune system's balance, impairing its ability to fight off infections effectively1b.
Changes in Sleep Pattern
Sleep enables a well-balanced immune system and has far-reaching importance for virtually every system of the body.3a Lack of sleep has wide-ranging health effects and could disrupt the immune system, making it easier for you to get sick.3b
Unlock the Secrets to Stress Management
Now that we understand the link between stress and vulnerability to respiratory infections, how can we effectively manage stress to support our immune system?
Practice Stress-Reduction Techniques
Engage in deep abdominal breathing exercises, visualisation of tranquil scenes, meditation, yoga or tai chi to lower stress levels and promote relaxation2c.
Keep Your Body Moving
Engage in physical activity. Going for a brisk walk right after experiencing stress, not only encourages deeper breathing, but also aids in alleviating muscle tension2d.
Stay Social
Having a strong social support system comprising of confidants, friends, acquaintances, co-workers, relatives, spouses, and companions can significantly enrich one's life and potentially extend their lifespan.
While the exact reasons are not fully understood, the buffering theory suggests that individuals who cultivate close relationships with loved ones receive emotional support that indirectly helps them endure chronic stress and navigate through crises2e.
Get Adequate Sleep
Prioritising relaxation and winding down before bedtime can help promote restful sleep and relieve the accumulated stress of the day. Allocating a period of calm before bed enables you to detach yourself from daily concerns before entering a state of slumber.
Consider indulging in a warm shower or bath, receiving a soothing massage, or engaging in gentle stretching exercises as part of your pre-sleep routine4.
Seek Professional Help
If stress management becomes overwhelming, seek professional support through therapists, counsellors, or health care providers5.
How the Cepacol® Cough & Cold Range Can Provide Relief
While managing stress is crucial for protecting against colds and flu, it's equally important to seek prompt relief when symptoms arise – and ensure you get a restful night’s sleep.
With various cold and flu medication available, such as throat lozenges, throat sprays, hot medication, and syrups, Cepacol® makes it convenient for consumers to find the perfect solution for their needs.
The Cepacol® Cough & Cold range includes a variety of new products packed with multiple benefits:
New Cepacol® Cough & Cold Syrup
Cepacol® Cough & Cold Syrup6 offers targeted relief for a persistent cough, congestion, and sore throat. Formulated with ivy leaf and pelargonium, it provides cough relief while combating cold and flu symptoms with their antibacterial and antiviral properties. The non-drowsy formulation is alcohol-free and sugar-free, making it safe to be taken from the age of six.
New Cepacol® Plus Cough & Cold Syrup
Specifically designed for night-time relief, Cepacol® Plus Cough & Cold Syrup7 addresses two troublesome symptoms: coughing and nasal congestion. It combines ivy leaf, pelargonium, and valerian extract, offering night-time cough relief.
New Cepacol® Throat Spray
Cepacol® Throat Spray8 combines ivy leaf, pelargonium, and menthol. It quickly numbs the throat, providing temporary pain and discomfort relief.
Cepacol® understands the daily needs of individuals experiencing cold or flu symptoms, which is why they have developed these comprehensive solutions. With their range of products, there's a Cepacol® option for everyone.
So, if you're dealing with cold, cough, or flu symptoms, there’s a Cepacol® for that!
Cepacol®'s new range of products is now available at leading pharmacies and retailers nationwide. For more information, visit www.cepacol.co.za and join the conversation on Facebook.
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References:
- Rn.com AMN Healthcare Education Services. Stress, Inflammation, Immunity. Available from: https://www.rn.com/featured-stories/stress-inflammation-immunity/. Last accessed May 2023.
- Harvard Health Publishing. Understanding the stress response. Available from : https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/understanding-the-stress-response. Last accessed May 2023.
- Sleep Foundation. How sleep affects immunity. Available from: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/physical-health/how-sleep-affects-immunity. Last accessed May 2023.
- Sleep Score Labs. How sleep reduces stress. Available from: https://www.sleepscore.com/blog/how-rest-your-way-less-stress/. Last accessed May 2023.
- Good Therapy. Stress. Available from: https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/issues/stress. Last accessed May 2023.
- CEPACOL® Cough and cold syrup approved professional information, February 2022.
- CEPACOL® Plus cough and cold syrup approved professional information, February 2022.
- CEPACOL® Throat Spray approved professional information, February 2022.
CEPACOL® Throat Lozenges Menthol. Each lozenge contains: Cetylpyridinium chloride 1,47 mg and Benzyl alcohol 6,5 mg. Reg. No.: /A40/16.4/0297.
CEPACOL® Throat Lozenges Regular. Each lozenge contains: Cetylpyridinium chloride 1,47 mg and Benzyl alcohol 6,5 mg. Ref No: H1388 (Act 101 of 1965).
CEPACOL® Throat Lozenges Blackcurrant Flavour. Each lozenge contains: Cetylpyridinium chloride 1,47 mg and Benzyl alcohol 6,5 mg. Reg. No.: 33/16.4/0492.
CEPACOL® Throat Lozenges Honey and Lemon Flavour. Each lozenge contains: Cetylpyridinium chloride 1,47 mg and Benzyl alcohol 6,5 mg. Reg. No.: 33/16.4/0505.
CEPACOL® MEDSIP HONEY LEMON (POWDER). Each 5 g sachet contains: Paracetamol 800 mg, Caffeine 50 mg, Ascorbic acid 10 mg.: 27/5.8/0508.
CEPACOL® MEDSIP GINGER (POWDER). Each 5 g sachet contains: Paracetamol 800 mg, Caffeine 50 mg, Ascorbic acid 10 mg.: Y/5.8/10.
CEPACOL® Cough and Cold Syrup. Each 5 ml contains Pelargonium sidiodes 150 mg, Hedera helix 5 mg.
CEPACOL® Plus Cough and Cold Syrup. Each 5 ml contains Pelargonium sidiodes 150 mg, Hedera helix 5 mg, Valerianae officinalis L12 mg. Category D: Complementary Medicine. Discipline Specific: D33.6 Western Herbal Medicine. This unregistered medicine has not been evaluated by SAHPRA for its quality, safety or intended use.
CEPACOL® Throat Spray. Each ml contains Pelargonium sidiodes 140 mg, Hedera helix 40 mg, Menthol crystals 0,09 mg, Eucalyptus globules 0,45 mg and Syzygium aromaticum 0,3 mg. Category D: Complementary Medicine. Discipline Specific: D33.6 Western Herbal Medicine. This unregistered medicine has not been evaluated by SAHPRA for its quality, safety or intended use.
For full prescribing information refer to the professional information approved by the medicines regulatory authority. Adcock Ingram Limited Co. Reg. No. 1949/034385/06. Private Bag X69, Bryanston, 2021, South Africa.Tel. +27 11 635 0000. www.adcock.com. 2023032710267652 March 2023.