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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
While there's no cure for a common cold or flu, over-the-counter medicines may help alleviate your symptoms. The best cold and flu medicine depends on your symptoms, such as fever, cough, sore throat, or body aches. Pain medication, for example, can treat a sore throat, aches, and fever. Decongestants help alleviate a stuffy nose, while expectorants can treat a runny nose. Various viruses may cause a cold—the most common being rhinoviruses. Influenza viruses, in contrast, cause the flu. The most effective options for getting rid of cold symptoms include decongestants, cough suppressants, and pain relievers. Antivirals are also effective for getting rid of the flu fast. If you take them at the start of your illness, they help shorten the duration of the flu. There are multiple homeopathic supplements marketed as cold remedies. However, there is little to no evidence that these products are effective. Body and muscle aches often occur with the flu, while headache is a common cold symptom. Tylenol (acetaminophen) can relieve painful symptoms. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) also treat discomfort and reduce inflammation. Common NSAIDs include Advil and Motrin (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen). While short-term use of NSAIDs is generally well-tolerated, these medications may increase the risk of heart attacks or stroke and can lead to ulcers and bleeding. Long-term use can also lead to kidney damage. Some supplements, such as zinc, ginseng, and vitamin C, may help to reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms. Research has found that OTC decongestants are an effective way to treat a stuffy nose in adults. Decongestants narrow the blood vessels that line nasal passages, which reduces inflammation. Look for decongestants that contain pseudoephedrine, such as Sudafed. You'll have to ask for it at the pharmacy counter. Pseudoephedrine may cause a number of side effects, including:AnxietyDifficulty sleepingDizzinessNausea and vomiting Pseudoephedrine may also slightly increase blood pressure. People with high blood pressure may want to consider spray-based decongestants, such as Afrin (oxymetazoline). Only use nasal decongestants for short periods. Chronic use can lead to rebound congestion, meaning your nose feels stuffier after you stop using it. A hacking cough is one of the most common cold or flu symptoms. Suppressants that contain dextromethorphan (DM) may help a bit. Remember, a cough can be part of the healing process, as it can help clear your airways. Pain relievers like Tylenol and NSAIDs can help reduce a fever. Try taking a fever reducer with a cup of tea or soup. These warm, soothing fluids may help soothe a sore throat. Antihistamines may provide temporary relief from a runny nose and sneezing, particularly during the first two days of illness. Common brand names include Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Claritin (loratadine), and Zyrtec (cetirizine). Claritin
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