The flu and the common cold are the reason for most unnecessary visits to the physicians office than any other type of sickness. With Swine Flu on the rise these visits have increased. Since the cold and flu are caused by viruses they can be almost always treated at home. There are lots of over the counter drugs that will help ease the pain while your body recovers.
When the body is ridding itself of the cold or flu virus a runny nose is normally what occurs. The body uses sneezing as a way to expel germs and irritants from the body. Unfortunately, this also causes the spread of the virus if others come into direct contact with the microscopic particles that carry the virus. It is very important to sneezing into a tissue or cloth of some sort to avoid spreading the virus. Viruses such as the common cold and flu are spread through direct contact some hand washing is very important to keep from spreading the virus to others.
Excess mucous due to a runny nose is generally a symptom of the common cold or flu along with sore throat and coughing. Mucous that drips back into the throat can cause ear infections and additional pain. It can also lead to other infections and sinus pain.
Hay Fever can be a reason for excess mucous which also causes runny nose, sneezing, itching and watery eyes. Usually Hay Fever lasts longer than most viral infections sometimes as long as weeks and months. The Spring and Fall are the times when Hay Fever is at its peak because more allergens and pollen tend to be in the air at these times. Dust mold and animal dander can cause flare ups of existing allergies in people thus causing runny noses.
You can relieve the pain and fever associated with the common cold and flu by using medications such as: acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen which all can be purchased over the counter. These medication should be taken regularly in the evening as symptoms due to viral infections tend to worsen late afternoon and evenings. Other alternatives are to open the nasal passages and reduce nasal secretions with the use of decongestants and antihistamines.
To prevent other complications such as bronchitis and ear infection drink lots of fluids to keep the mucous more fluid and loose. Blowing your nose more frequently which aids in moving the virus particles and allergens out of the body. As well as vaporizers work very well during the winter months to aid in running the mucous out of your nose easily. Avoid sniffing your running nose frequently as this may contribute to an ear infection. If symptoms last longer than two weeks you should contact you family doctor.
