There are no medicines that will cure the common cold. Given time, the body's immune system will make antibodies to fight the infection and the cold will get better on its own. Antibiotics have no effect on colds because they do not kill viruses. A very large number of medications are available for the treatment of cold symptoms. These include antihistamines, decongestants, and pain relievers.
· Antihistamines block the action of histamine. They relieve sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion. Side effects include a dry mouth and drowsiness. For this reason, antihistamines should not be taken by people who must drive or operate heavy machinery.
· However, aspirin should never be given to children younger than 12, and all kids and teens under age 19 shouldn't take aspirin during viral illnesses, because such use may increase the risk of developing Reye syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can be fatal.
· Decongestants reduce blood flow and shrink tissues in the nose and make it easier to breathe. A side effect is nervousness and an inability to sleep. People with heart disease and high blood pressure should not use decongestants.
· Nasal sprays and nose drops can also help to reduce nasal congestion. These products are used to apply a decongestant directly to the nose. It can take effect and act more strongly, therefore, than decongestants in pills or liquids. One problem with nasal sprays and nose drops is that people may become dependent on them. Once an individual stops using the products, he or she may experience withdrawal symptoms. For that reason, nasal sprays and nose drops should not be used for more than a few days.
Cold symptoms can also be relieved by some simple self-care steps. These include:
~Drinking plenty of fluids, but avoiding acidic juices (such as grapefruit juice) that may irritate the throat
~Gargling with warm salt water for a sore throat
~Not smoking
~Getting plenty of rest
~Using a cool-mist room humidifier to ease congestion and sore throat
~Rubbing a lubricant such as Vaseline under the nose to prevent irritation from frequent nose-blowing
~Removing mucus from the nose of infants who are too young to blow their noses. Infant nasal aspirators are available for this purpose
No comments:
Post a Comment