Zinc also has potentially harmful side effects. Some studies show that zinc lozenges or syrup reduce the length of a cold by about one day, especially when taken within 24 to 48 hours of the first signs and symptoms of a cold. But research has turned up mixed results about zinc and colds. Several studies have suggested that zinc supplements may reduce the length of a cold. Check with your doctor before taking echinacea or any other supplement. It appears to be safe for healthy adults, but it can interact with many drugs. Different types of echinacea used in different studies may have contributed to the mixed results.Įchinacea seems to be most effective if you take it when you notice cold symptoms and continue it for seven to 10 days. Others show some reduction in the severity and duration of cold symptoms when taken in the early stages of a cold. Study results on whether echinacea prevents or shortens colds are mixed.
Vitamin C may benefit people at high risk of colds due to frequent exposure - for example, children who attend group child care during the winter.Įchinacea. However, some studies have found that taking vitamin C before cold symptoms start may shorten the length of time you have symptoms.
Home remedies for cold plus#
Some cold remedies contain multiple ingredients, such as a decongestant plus a pain reliever, so read the labels of cold medications you take to make sure you're not taking too much of any medication. Talk with your child's doctor before giving any medications. Overuse and misuse of these medications can cause serious damage. However, they won't prevent a cold or shorten its duration, and most have some side effects.Įxperts agree that these shouldn't be given to younger children.
For adults and children age 5 and older, OTC decongestants, antihistamines and pain relievers might offer some symptom relief. Try over-the-counter (OTC) cold and cough medications. Change the water daily, and clean the unit according to the manufacturer's instructions. A cool-mist vaporizer or humidifier can add moisture to your home, which might help loosen congestion. Honey may help coughs in adults and children who are older than age 1. A cold remedy used in many cultures, taking in warm liquids, such as chicken soup, tea or warm apple juice, might be soothing and might ease congestion by increasing mucus flow. This is because aspirin has been linked to Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, in such children. Though aspirin is approved for use in children older than age 3, children and teenagers recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms should never take aspirin. Use caution when giving aspirin to children or teenagers. Ask your child's doctor for the correct dose for your child's age and weight.Īdults can take acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or aspirin. For children older than 6 months, give either acetaminophen or ibuprofen. For children 6 months or younger, give only acetaminophen. Saline nasal sprays may be used in older children. To do this, squeeze the bulb, gently place the syringe tip in the nostril about 1/4 to 1/2 inch (about 6 to 12 millimeters), and slowly release the bulb. In infants, experts recommend putting several saline drops into one nostril, then gently suctioning that nostril with a bulb syringe. Over-the-counter saline nasal drops and sprays can help relieve stuffiness and congestion. Don't give lozenges or hard candy to children younger than 6 years.Ĭombat stuffiness. Use caution when giving lozenges or hard candy to children because they can choke on them. You can also try ice chips, sore throat sprays, lozenges or hard candy.
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