OTC Medication for Common Cold Symptoms

It is unlikely that a person can avoid having a common cold for too long. It is possibly the most common illness that people get, hence its name. Colds pass from person to person through close contact and can affect people of all ages. Symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, along with coughing and sneezing. You may also have a fever, headache, and sore throat. Fortunately, you can find relief with over-the-counter medication.

How to prevent the common cold

Viruses cause colds, and these are extremely contagious. A person can catch a cold at any time of the year, but colds are most rampant during the fall and winter. There are ways to reduce the risk of developing a cold, and it takes vigilance to keep this illness at bay. Handwashing is an effective measure. People should wash their hands with soap for about 20 seconds each time, especially after using the restroom and before eating.

Sanitizing the home is another good idea. People should wipe down contact points such as light switches, tables and countertops, and doorknobs to prevent the spread of the virus. In addition, people who are sick should avoid going out in crowds. Also, people should not be around those ill, especially when the cold virus is most active.

Treatment options

A person’s first thought to combat the common cold might be to take medicine. Indeed, this can be effective in relieving symptoms of congestion, especially. Other ways to battle symptoms include staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and resting. In addition, avoiding strenuous activity will give the body time to recover and heal.

Antihistamines

Histamine is a chemical the body releases to fight mucus buildup when a person has a cold or allergies. Histamine inflames the membranes in the nasal cavity. An antihistamine medication reduces this inflammation and can help effectively block many common cold symptoms. The medicine can come in a pill, tablet, or liquid.

Decongestants

When cold symptoms include a stuffy nose, breathing can be difficult. A decongestant medication can help. This medicine can ease cold symptoms and clear out the nasal cavity of mucus. However, people taking this medicine should be cautious about following the dosage recommendations of the product.

Pain relief medicine

The common cold can make some people feel achy joints and muscles. Fevers and headaches can also occur and make the person feel miserable. To relieve these issues, the individual can turn to pain relievers. These over-the-counter drugs will not take the cold away but can help manage these difficult symptoms. Again, be sure to follow the dosage instructions.