As Malaysia undergoes alternating periods of scorching temperatures and pouring rain, it wouldn’t be surprising if one came down with the common cold. Sneezing, coughing, postnasal drip, congestion, low-grade fever, and/or fatigue are just some of the symptoms one might expect.
While colds usually resolve on their own, you might be tempted to head to the pharmacy for over-the-counter (OTC) medications to alleviate your symptoms and speed up your recovery.
So, what are some of the options available to you, and what are the key differences among them? Here’s what you should know.
1. Antihistamines
Antihistamines generally work by blocking the chemical your body makes in response to an allergen that causes you to sneeze, itch, have water eyes, and/or runny noses. While these won’t cure the cold itself, they can help better manage symptoms that may be exacerbated by the release of histamine during a cold.
There are three “generations” of antihistamines available. First-generation antihistamines are useful when cold symptoms are too severe to the point that they disturb your sleep; thus, this medication is typically taken at night and will offer a sedative effect.
Second- and third-generation antihistamines are usually taken once a day after food, and tend to have a longer duration of action. These include brands such as Clarityne, Zyrtec and Telfast.
2. Decongestants
Decongestants provide relief by narrowing the blood vessels in your nasal passages, relieving the feeling of pressure and improving airflow through the nose. As oral OTC products, decongestants are normally combined with an antihistamine to address multiple symptoms.
Decongestants, however, may not be appropriate for everyone, especially those with pre-existing hypertension as they could raise blood pressure.
3. Saline nasal spray
A saline nasal spray would be your best bud if your nose remains blocked despite having tried the options above. It essentially helps relieve congestion by moistening and loosening mucus in the nasal passages, hence facilitating breathing.
4. Supplements
Supplements that offer immune support can be taken together to further reduce the severity of symptoms and assist in a smoother recovery. These include:
- Zinc
Found in foods such as beef, oysters, and eggs, this mineral plays many important roles in the body, including immune support. Studies have shown zinc to have proviral properties that inhibit the replication of cold viruses.
- Elderberry
Promoted as Sambucol in the market, elderberry is commonly used to treat cold symptoms. With its antioxidant and immune-modulating properties, elderberries are safe to be taken daily and are even friendly for kids age two and above.
- Echinacea
Probably the most common herbal supplement associated with the prevention and treatment of colds, echinacea is promoted as an immune-system stimulant. Studies suggest that it helps reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, especially when taken at the onset of a cold.
- Vitamin D
Adequate amounts of vitamin D may help lessen the severity of infections and perhaps even prevent them. Emerging studies have shown that vitamin D protects against many respiratory-tract infections as it aids in the function of immune cells that protect our body against pathogens.
- Vitamin C
Known for its longstanding immune-boosting properties, regular supplementation of vitamin C has been said to decrease the duration of a cold.
This article was written by DOC2US, a mobile application that allows you to talk to a doctor or any healthcare professionals via text chat at any time and from anywhere.