Coughs,
colds and flu are a common problem in winter, with symptoms that
can last 7-14 days. Doctors advise you should try to treat cold
and flu symptoms with rest and over-the-counter remedies for 7
days before you call your GP.
While
at home, take the following steps to help you find relief.
Colds
If you smoke, then stop!
Smoking lowers the body's resistance to viral infection
and can aggravate symptoms.
Drink plenty of fluids to
avoid dehydration. Hot drinks can have a soothing
effect. If you don't feel like eating solid food, try
soup instead.
Alternate
paracetamol and aspirin every 3 hours. This will ease
your sore throat and muscle aches. Do not give aspirin
to children under 12.
Keep warm and rest.
Ask
your pharmacist for advice on what over-the-counter
medication would best treat your symptoms. If you are
taking other medicines, always check with your
pharmacist first. Many cold and flu products already
contain paracetamol and using several products together
is very dangerous as it can lead to an overdose.
If you already have cold
or flu medicine in the house check that it has not
passed its sell-by date. Remember to store medicines out
of the reach of children.
Please note
that any health tips or advice provided on this site are not
intended as, and should not be regarded as a substitute for
medical advice from your doctor or health professional.
