What Is Good for a Flu or Cold?
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Common Cold
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A common cold is a viral infection that strikes the nose and upper respiratory system. Common symptoms include runny nose, itchy throat, congestion and light fever. Since colds will resolve on their own, medication is centered on relieving symptoms. Taking a painkiller like Tylenol can help reduce body aches and fever. If you have severe congestion, light use of a nasal decongestant spray can help you breathe better. One common perception is that over-the-counter cough syrup is effective. According to the American College of Chest Physicians, cough syrups are ineffective and actually harmful to children under 14.
Flu
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The flu resembles a cold in symptoms, but while a cold comes on at a slow rate, the flu hits you suddenly and usually much harder than a cold. Symptoms include high fever, chills, cough, body aches and exhaustion. In most cases, drinking lots of fluids and getting plenty of rest is all that is needed for the flu to go away. However, there are antiviral drugs available such as Tamiflu, where if taken early can help lessen the severity and duration of the virus. Tamiflu has side effects like confusion, dizziness and nausea.
Alternative Remedies
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According to the Mayo Clinc, taking echinacea can shorten the duration of the cold and mitigate some symptoms. It should be taken as soon as you begin to feel symptoms. Small doses of vitamin C may also be helpful in warding off colds, but large amounts may be more harmful than helpful. Also, there is evidence that zinc can help reduce symptoms if used at the beginning of a cold. The use of zinc sprays are discouraged since some people experienced a loss of smell permanently after use.
While there isn't much to do for the flu, the Mayo Clinic suggests eating chicken soup since it can help fight off symptoms like congestion.
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