Many experts believe the increase is due to the fact that people tend to spend more time indoors with others during the winter months, which increases the chances of a cold virus being spread. Since a virus is spread from person to person, there are no foolproof ways to keep yourself free of colds and flu. Once you get a cold or flu, there are medications that can help relieve some of the symptoms. Breathing in hot vapors from a shower mayhelp you feel better Elevate your head at night to help nasal passages drain Blow your nose to clear any congestion, but do it gently and blow both nostrils at the same time Use medication for specific symptoms where appropriate Different ingredients in medications do different things. For example, decongestants can relieve congestion and shrink swelling in your nose and sinuses.
Antihistamines can stop sneezing and itching.
In addition, people who suffer from heart disease, high blood pressure, a thyroid condition, glaucoma, and men who have an enlarged prostate should take decongestants only under a doctor s care. Before taking any medications, of course, always tell the doctor and pharmacist about other medications you're already taking. Compared to the common cold, potential complications from the flu are more serious and can include bronchitis or pneumonia. Left untreated these complications can be life-threatening. These kinds of complications become especially serious as we get older.