COLD & FLU RELIEF
the stages of a cold:
how to find relief
The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.
The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Please consult a healthcare professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.
fact:
Having a cold is no fun, and while it may seem to linger, symptoms typically last 10-14 days. No two colds are the same, and symptoms vary from person to person. Unfortunately, there's no cure for a cold, but you can alleviate symptoms by staying hydrated, resting, and using over-the- counter medicines.
Learn about the three stages of a cold and how to start feeling better right away.
Stage 1: Days 1 - 3
The first symptoms of a cold appear a few days after you have been infected. The virus is spread from person to person through the air or close personal contact with someone who is sick.
At the onset of a cold you may:
Start sneezing
Have a runny or stuffy nose
Start coughing
Have a tickle in your throat
Experience hoarseness
It’s a good idea to stay home when you start to experience symptoms to prevent others from getting infected.
Stage 2: Days 4 - 7
During the second phase your symptoms usually get worse. Not only do you feel it in your nose and throat, but you may also experience:
Headache and body aches
Fatigue
Watery eyes
Fever
This is typically the most miserable phase of the cold.
Stage 3: Days 8 – 10
In this final stage, your symptoms usually start to fade. But it is possible that some symptoms may linger a few more days.
Note that if your symptoms get worse or your fever returns, see a healthcare provider. It’s possible you may have developed another infection or another illness such as bronchitis, sinusitis, or pneumonia.
finding relief from a cold
So what can you do to start feeling better?
Rest
The most important thing to do is rest, especially during the first few days. It’s a good idea to stay home if you can so help prevent others from getting sick.
Drink fluids
Drinking fluids is also a good idea to avoid drying out your throat or nose.
Use a humidifier
Moisten the air in the room with a clean humidifier or cool mist vaporizer.
Gargle
Warm salt water can help your throat feel better.
Use saline products
Saline sprays or nose drops can also moisten your nose and think mucus.
Try over-the-counter medicines
There are several products you can try to help get some symptom relief.
Pain relievers can help ease headaches, body aches and fever
Decongestants can help unstuff your nose
Antihistamines may help stop sneezing and runny nose
Cough suppressants can reduce your cough
Expectorants help thin and loosen mucus
If you have several symptoms, you can try a multi-symptom relief product. Alka-Seltzer Plus® Cold & Flu Maximum Strength Liquid Gels Day & Night can help relieve nasal congestion, sore throat, headaches & body aches, sinus pressure, and cough.
Supplements such as zinc, echinacea and vitamin C have been researched, but have not been proven to be especially effective.
