Paracetamol will help the aches and pains. Something like Sudafed will dry up the mucus a bit, but if you're in for it, you're in for it.
Hope it's not as bad as the one I've (still) got.
Vicks first defence (a revolting nasal spray)really does work at stopping a cold sometimes and I heard Boots do their own version now which is even better.
You can safely double-up on the dosage of painkillers (which help to control the inflammation which gives rise to your discomfort) by taking ibuprofen and paracetamol alternately throughout the day, as long as you don't exceed the maximum daily quantity of each individual drug.
I usually get a carton of orange and pineapple juice... I get it as soon as I get a sniffle or sore throat and I swear it's gone by the next day. I take zinc supplements every day as well :)
Much as the effects of echinacea have been doubted, apparently one survey said that if you take it in the very early days of a cold it has been shown to reduce the severity of symptoms. I always take it right at the start of a virus. I couldn`t say if it helped because I don`t know what would happen if I didn`t take it. No harm in trying though. Failing that, ibuprofen (if you have swollen neck glands or a sore throat) or paracetamol for a high temperature and lots of fluids.
Thanks all for your advice, hit me just when all the kids had got in from school! Got tomorrow sorted with a gallon of tomato soup and bread for lunch, probably a chippie tea. Shall send himself for other supplies on Sunday. x
There may be something to be said for zinc supplements. The very reliable Cochrane Collaboration published this meta analysis of 13 trials showing some benefit (if taken early in the first 24 hrs). Further studies are needed for the correct dosage of zinc.
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