Frendoc - Providing Patient Care

Coughs & Colds

• Coughs & Colds •
• Flu •
• Sore Throats •
• Diarrhoea & Vomiting •
• Hayfever •
• Asthma

Treatments for coughs and colds?

Symptoms tend to be worse in the first 2-3 days, and then usually ease. An irritating cough may linger for up to 2-4 weeks after other symptoms have gone. Antibiotics do not kill viruses, so are of no use for common coughs and colds. Treatment aims to ease symptoms. The most useful treatments are:

• Plenty to drink
• Paracetamol to ease aches and pains, headaches, and fever.
• Ibuprofen can also be given to relieve symptoms.

You can buy various 'cold remedies' and 'cough mixtures'. There is little evidence that they do much good, but some people find them useful. Note: they often contain several ingredients. Some may make cause drowsiness. Some contain a decongestant which may help to ease a bunged up nose. Some contain paracetamol, be careful not to exceed the maximum dose of paracetamol.

Symptoms to look out for?

Most coughs and colds get better without complications. Sometimes a more serious 'secondary' bacterial infection develops from an initial virus infection. For example, an ear infection. Symptoms to look out for include: wheeziness, persistent earache, fast breathing, difficulty breathing, persistent high temperatures, drowsiness and chest pains. See a doctor if any symptoms develop that you are concerned about