Cold Medicine That Doesn T Make You Feel Weird
Cold and flu season is upon us, and with it comes the inevitable need for relief from runny noses, coughing, and sore throats. However, many over-the-counter cold medicines can leave you feeling groggy, dizzy, or simply not like yourself. Luckily, there are options available that can help alleviate your symptoms without making you feel weird.
What Makes Cold Medicine Make You Feel Weird?
The most common ingredient in cold medicines that can make you feel weird is called diphenhydramine. It's an antihistamine that's included in many cold and allergy medications because it can help relieve sneezing, runny noses, and other symptoms caused by histamines. However, diphenhydramine can also cause drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion, which is why it's often included in sleep aids as well. While these side effects can be beneficial if you're trying to get a good night's sleep, they're not ideal if you're trying to go about your day as usual.
What Are Some Alternatives?
Thankfully, there are other options available for cold symptom relief that don't include diphenhydramine. Here are some examples:
Nasal Decongestants
Nasal decongestants such as pseudoephedrine can help relieve stuffy noses and sinus pressure without causing drowsiness. These medications work by constricting blood vessels in your nasal passages, which reduces swelling and allows you to breathe more easily. However, it's important to note that pseudoephedrine can raise your blood pressure, so if you have hypertension or other heart problems, you should talk to your doctor before taking it.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer that's commonly included in cold and flu medicines. It's not an antihistamine, so it won't cause drowsiness or other weird side effects. However, it's important to follow the recommended dosage carefully, as taking too much acetaminophen can cause liver damage.
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is another pain reliever that can help alleviate cold and flu symptoms such as headaches and body aches. Like acetaminophen, it's not an antihistamine, so it won't cause drowsiness or other weird side effects. However, ibuprofen can irritate your stomach lining, so it's important to take it with food and avoid taking it if you have a history of stomach ulcers or other digestive problems.
Guaifenesin
Guaifenesin is an expectorant that can help loosen mucus and phlegm from your chest, making it easier to cough it up. It's not an antihistamine, so it won't cause drowsiness or other weird side effects. However, it's important to drink plenty of fluids while taking guaifenesin, as it can cause dehydration if you don't.
Conclusion
If you're looking for cold medicine that won't make you feel weird, there are plenty of options available. Nasal decongestants, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and guaifenesin can all help relieve your symptoms without causing drowsiness or other side effects. However, it's important to follow the recommended dosage carefully and talk to your doctor before taking any new medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.