People suffering from a specific Covid symptom have been issued a warning by the NHS. This is because the position in which you lie down to sleep could make you feel worse.

As temperatures plummet across the UK, the likelihood of contracting seasonal ailments such as colds, flu, or COVID-19 increases. These viruses flourish in colder conditions and can transmit rapidly as we spend extended periods indoors.

In terms of Covid, a majority of people will recover within days or weeks without requiring medical treatment. Consequently, the NHS recommends obtaining adequate rest to support your recovery process.

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It also suggests remaining at home and avoiding contact with others if you display symptoms and feel too unwell for normal activities. Additionally, the health organisation offers more targeted advice for those experiencing a cough.

A cough represents one of the most prevalent Covid symptoms, particularly when it becomes "continuous". The NHS characterises this as coughing frequently for over an hour, or experiencing three or more coughing bouts within 24 hours.

To alleviate this symptom, the NHS states: "Do not lie on your back if you have a cough – lie on your side or sit upright instead."

This recommendation is supported by Dr Elizabeth Rainbolt. Speaking to the Cleveland Clinic, she cautioned that lying flat on your back can exacerbate postnasal drip.

For those with a dry cough, sleeping on your side rather than your back can help reduce irritation, she explained. Dr Rainbolt explained: "Elevating your head is probably the best sleeping position. Whether it's by adding another pillow or raising the head of your bed, this can help your cough by not allowing drainage to collect at the back of your throat too much."

Those experiencing a persistent cough are advised by the NHS to consult a pharmacist regarding available treatments.

Beyond coughing, the NHS identifies additional Covid indicators as:

• A high temperature or shivering (chills) – a high temperature means you feel hot to the touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature)


• A loss or change to your sense of smell or taste


• Shortness of breath


• Feeling tired or exhausted


• An aching body


• A headache


• A sore throat


• A blocked or runny nose


• Loss of appetite


• Diarrhoea


• Feeling sick or being sick


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The NHS clarifies that treating COVID-19 isn't always feasible. "But there are things you can do to help ease some of the symptoms, such as a high temperature, a cough and breathlessness," it states.

Consequently, it suggests you:

• Ensure you get plenty of rest


• Stay hydrated by drinking ample water to avoid dehydration (your urine should be light yellow or clear)


• Take paracetamol or ibuprofen if you're feeling uncomfortable


• Consider having a teaspoon of honey for a cough – but remember, do not give honey to babies under 12 months


• To help with breathlessness, consider turning down the heating or opening a window


• Breathe slowly in through your nose and out through your mouth, with your lips together as if you're gently blowing out a candle


• Sitting upright in a chair can also assist with breathlessness


• Relax your shoulders to avoid hunching, which can exacerbate breathlessness


• Lean forward slightly – support yourself by placing your hands on your knees or on something stable like a chair to alleviate breathlessness


• Avoid using a fan to cool your room as it may spread the virus


• Try not to panic if you're feeling breathless – this can make it worse

For more information, visit the NHS website here.