Although a few studies suggest vitamin C might shorten the duration of a cold, others contradict this, and no major studies show benefit for influenza. Ultra-high doses of vitamin C can cause diarrhea. VITAMINS: Americans love taking vitamins, but it's possible to get too much. The American College of Chest Physicians recommends against using any cough syrup. Zinc is toxic in high doses.ĬOUGH SYRUP: Many over-the-counter cough syrups contain guaifenesin, an expectorant that helps clear mucus, but the American Lung Association cautions that there is no evidence at all that it helps. Whole grains are rich in zinc and a balanced diet may provide all you need. And while people who have zinc deficiency may have weakened immune systems, that does not necessarily mean that more zinc is better. One Canadian study suggests that zinc supplements might help reduce the severity of the common cold, but different formulations of different products make it a difficult theory to test. ZINC: Theories abound that zinc supplements might boost the immune system, but the Food and Drug Administration recommends against using zinc nasal gel because it can cause a permanent loss of smell. One exception: There is some evidence that fresh garlic might help prevent colds, and there’s little harm in eating it. One problem with testing herbal supplements is that they come in different formulations, sometimes even using different species of plants. The scientific jury is still out on ginseng. A big batch of studies now shows echinachea doesn’t prevent colds or flu or even help treat symptoms.
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GOING HERBAL: There’s little evidence on most herbal remedies for colds and flu. And cold or warm drinks can soothe a sore throat. It may be easier to suck on small ice cubes or ice pops. If you have an upset stomach, try sipping through a straw. The Health and Human Services Department recommends plenty of clear fluids such as water, broth or sports drinks. Dehydration is a special risk when people have fevers. It’s also surprisingly easy to overdose – acetaminophen, especially, is toxic to the liver and people can accidentally take too much if they take a combination of cold remedies.ĭRINK UP: “Drink plenty of fluids” is a time-honored remedy and it’s true. Children should never be given aspirin – it can cause a deadly reaction called Reyes Syndrome.
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Patients with asthma, high blood pressure or other chronic conditions should check with a doctor before taking them. POP A PAINKILLER: Pain and fever relieving medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen – sold under brand names such as Motrin, Advil and Tylenol – take away the fever and can help muscle aches.
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If you've got a cold or the flu, you don't have to just tough it out. Cough remedies containing the suppressant dextromethorphan may help but most contain too little to do much good, and they are subject to abuse by teenagers, especially, looking for a high so watch out for that. Cough drops or hard candies can soothe a scratchy throat, although young children who might choke shouldn’t get them. HIT THE COLD AND FLU AISLE: Decongestants and antihistamines both can help the most annoying symptoms of a cold or the flu – a runny nose, coughing that’s caused by post-nasal drip, tearing eyes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends it. There’s also a slightly different inhaled drug called Relenza, and an injection that was just approved for the very ill called peramivir. It’s called Tamiflu and if people take it within a day or two of the first symptoms, it can reduce how long you’re sick and how severe the disease it. TAKE AN ANTIVIRAL: If what you have is really influenza, there’s a prescription pill you can take.