Best Medicine To Stop A Cold In Its Tracks
The common cold is an annoying and frustrating illness that can affect anyone at any time. Symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, cough, and body aches can make you feel miserable and disrupt your daily routine. Luckily, there are several medicines available that can help stop a cold in its tracks. In this article, we will discuss the best medicine to stop a cold and how to use them effectively.
1. Decongestants
Decongestants are one of the most effective medicines to relieve nasal congestion and stuffiness caused by colds. They work by shrinking the swollen blood vessels in the nasal passages, which allows air to flow more freely. Decongestants are available in both oral and nasal spray forms. Some popular decongestants include phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine, and oxymetazoline.
However, decongestants can have some side effects such as increased blood pressure, nervousness, dizziness, and insomnia. Therefore, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and not use them for more than three days.
2. Pain Relievers
Colds can cause headaches, fever, and body aches, making it difficult to function normally. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin can help reduce these symptoms and make you feel more comfortable. These medicines work by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause pain and inflammation.
It is important to note that aspirin should not be given to children under the age of 18 due to the risk of developing a serious condition called Reye's syndrome. Also, ibuprofen and aspirin should not be taken together as they can increase the risk of bleeding and stomach ulcers.
3. Antihistamines
Antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergies, but they can also be effective in treating cold symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. They work by blocking the release of histamine, a chemical that causes allergic reactions and inflammation.
Some popular antihistamines include diphenhydramine, loratadine, and cetirizine. However, antihistamines can cause drowsiness, dry mouth, and blurred vision, so it is important to follow the recommended dosage and not operate heavy machinery while taking them.
4. Zinc Supplements
Zinc supplements are often used to boost the immune system and prevent colds. However, recent studies have shown that zinc supplements can also be effective in reducing the duration and severity of cold symptoms. Zinc works by preventing the cold virus from replicating and spreading in the body.
Zinc supplements are available in tablet, lozenge, and syrup forms. It is important to follow the recommended dosage as taking too much zinc can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Also, zinc supplements should not be taken with antibiotics as they can interfere with their effectiveness.
Conclusion
Stopping a cold in its tracks can be challenging, but with the right medicine and care, you can speed up your recovery and feel better in no time. Decongestants, pain relievers, antihistamines, and zinc supplements are some of the most effective medicines for treating cold symptoms. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and not use them for more than a few days. Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medicine, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications.