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, some symptoms can last for 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. Always use over the counter medications as directed.

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

Getting plenty of rest is very important. It’s a good idea to stay home if you can to help prevent others from getting sick.

Drink fluids

Make sure you're drinking plenty of fluids to keep your nose and throat moist. Avoid alcohol and caffeine because they have a drying effect.

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 loosen 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™ Cold, Cold & Flu + Congestion Severe Fast Dissolve Tablets, Citrus Flavor can help relieve nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, body ache, fever, cough, runny nose and sneezing.

Supplements such as zinc, echinacea and vitamin C have been researched, but none have been clearly shown to be beneficial.

Always use over-the-counter medications as directed.

References