Having the flu or cold is not fun. Symptoms, such as cough, fever, chills, body aches, runny nose, and sore throat, make it difficult to function. For most people, symptoms will go away in a few days to a week, but medication can help to manage the symptoms. When searching for an over the counter flu medication or cold medicine, there are certain things you should be aware of.
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Match the Medicine to Your Symptoms
Pharmacies offer numerous medications that are for multiple symptoms at once. However, many doctors recommend refraining from them, as they have a little of every ingredient but not quite enough of a specific one. Instead, choose the medicine that is focused on a specific symptom. Rather than grabbing a general pain reliever, look for one of the following:
- Decongestant to help with a stuffy nose
- Analgesic for body aches, fever or headache
- Antitussive cough medicine for a dry cough
- Expectorant cough medicine for a wet cough
- Antihistamine for sneezing or runny nose
- Throat lozenge for sore throat
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Medicine Produces Side Effects
All medication, whether it is an over-the-counter one or a prescription, has associated side effects. Read the labels carefully and determine if managing your symptoms is worth the chances of developing additional issues.
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Most OTC Medicine Just Covers Up Symptoms
Another thing to be aware of is that over-the-counter meds are not a cure and will not make the cold or flu go away. They just mask symptoms. When you stop taking them, the symptoms will typically return. The good news is that science is helping to discover new remedies that actually reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu. Check out brillia health reviews to discover some alternative options.
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Check With Your Doctor If You Are Taking Other Medication
Along with side effects, some OTC medicines have adverse reactions when taken with certain prescriptions or even other over the counter drugs. Ask your doctor or the pharmacist if you are unsure whether the cold or flu medication you are considering is safe to take with your other medications and supplements.
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There May Be Safer Alternatives
If you are wary of taking OTC medicine, or if your symptoms are not that terrible, you may want to manage them a different way. If you want to take a safer med, try brillia health otc cold & flu medicine, which works with your immune system to speed recovery and does not have side effects.
There are also home remedies you can try. Honey can tame a cough and soothe a sore throat, and it has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Gargling salt water is also good for a sore throat. Use distilled water in a neti pot or bulb syringe to rinse out your sinuses.
Increase your intake of vitamins C and D to boost the immune system, and stay hydrated by drinking water, hot tea, and clear broths. If you live in a dry climate, use a humidifier to keep the air moist, which will help you breathe easier. Take it easy and get plenty of sleep and you will be feeling better in no time.
