As the temperatures fall winter bugs begin to creep in. Many people have already found themselves coughing, sneezing and generally feeling unwell with trips to the pharmacy to stock up on cold and flu medication.
But with an extensive selection of over-the-counter products on the shelves, it can be tough to know what’s worth your money. Daniel Higham, an experienced pharmacist at Hightown Pharmacy, says there are some key ‘go-to’ options – and one which he would always avoid.
He said: “Paracetamol and Ibuprofen are your go-to’s for fever relief. Paracetamol is gentle on the stomach, while ibuprofen can also help with the pains caused by the flu or the cold.
“As for colds and coughs, you need saline nasal drops to clear congestion and honey to soothe sore throats. If you have earache, applying a warm compress to the affected ear can provide temporary relief, but you can also use paracetamol or ibuprofen to treat the pain.”
However, Daniel also had a warning about taking such medications and suggested avoiding one type of medication completely. He said: “While they can provide temporary relief, be mindful of potential side effects and avoid combining them with other medications.
“I also suggest avoiding Aspirin even though it is somewhat effective for pain because it can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in people with certain conditions. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to help thin mucus and soothe irritated tissues and rest a lot.”
He added: “If symptoms worsen, persist for longer periods, or you’re experiencing severe discomfort, seek medical advice.”