What are the Best Cold & Flu Remedies?

Getting vaccinated is the best protection against the flu and once you are ill, your only options are to treat your symptoms. Antibiotics cannot treat viruses, which cause the flu, the common cold, and most other upper respiratory ailments; they are only meant for bacterial infections. Antiviral medications for treating influenza are often only prescribed to those who have the illness and are at high risk of experiencing serious side effects, such as pregnant women, the elderly, or anyone with an impaired immune system. Continue reading to learn how to get home cold and flu remedies at our pharmacy.

How do I know if I have a cold or the flu?

The common cold lasts 7 to 10 days on average, and the cold virus will pass as over-the-counter pain relievers ease your discomfort.

The typical symptoms of a cold include:

- A runny or blocked nose
- Sneezing
- A sore throat
- Headaches
- Muscle aches
- Pressure on your face and ears
- Coughs
- High temperature
- Loss of smell and taste

The following include flu symptoms, which can come on very quickly:

- A sudden rise in temperature
- An aching body
- A headache
- Feeling tired or exhausted
- A dry cough
- Difficulty sleeping
- Loss of appetite
- A sore throat
- Diarrhoea or tummy pain
- Feeling sick and being sick

Children can also experience ear aches in addition to the same symptoms and appear to be less active.

What home remedies can I use to cure a cold and the flu?

Colds and the flu are incurable. However, there are certain treatments that could greatly alleviate your symptoms and stop you from feeling so awful. Here are some typical flu and cold home remedies:

1. Drinking plenty of water

Staying hydrated is the most important tip for recovering fast from a cold or flu infection. Your body has a built-in capability to naturally remove germs from your system when you're well hydrated.

2. Vitamin C home cold and flu remedies

Although it hasn't been demonstrated that vitamin C will stop cold symptoms, some research has suggested that it can reduce the duration of a cold. Additionally, it strengthens your immune system as well as your general health.

3. Sleep

Getting lots of sleep is crucial during the cold and flu season. Your immune system is better able to fight off harmful viruses and bacteria when you get enough sleep.

4. Tea and honey

Honey contains natural antiviral and antibacterial properties. To soothe a scratchy throat and maintain hydration, mix the natural sweetener into a cup of cinnamon or ginger tea.

5. Take a steamy shower

A sauna or a steamy shower works wonders to clear your sinuses. Sit in a chair in the bathroom and take a hot shower if you are feeling weak or dizzy from the illness.

6. Bring an extra pillow to bed

Sleep with an additional pillow under your head to help with sinus drainage.

7. Try over-the-counter home cold and flu remedies

OTC decongestants, antihistamines, and painkillers may provide some symptom alleviation for adults and children aged 5 and older. They do have certain adverse effects, though, and they won't stop or shorten a cold.

Younger children shouldn't be given OTC. These drugs can significantly cause damage if you abuse them or use them excessively. Consult with the doctor before giving your child any drugs.

Only take medications as prescribed. Read the labels of the cold medicines you take to be sure you're not using too much of any medicine. Some cold remedies have various ingredients, like a decongestant and a pain reliever.

How to get home cold and flu remedies

Shop now at Chemist.net for home cold and flu remedies to treat your symptoms. You can also visit your nearest Knights Pharmacy branch for treatment and vaccinations.

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This blog post was written on behalf of Chemist.net by Pharmacy Mentor.