As for over-the-counter cold medications, they have their place – just don't overdo it. "I don't advocate taking remedies that are just designed to get rid of symptoms," says Bitting, especially since masking the symptoms often encourages people to push too hard when they should be resting and recuperating. However, she adds, "if you have to take something to help you sleep, do so."
Marion suggests cough syrups with dextromethorphan (DM) to suppress night coughs, if they're interfering with sleep, but notes that "cough is a protective mechanism trying to rid the body of some irritant" – meaning don't overdo the cough syrup. Nasal decongestants can relieve a stuffy nose, she adds, but for adults and teens only – "they may not be beneficial in kids less than 12," she says – and make sure to avoid them if you have high blood pressure.
Plus, she says, "spray nasal decongestants should not be used for more than three to five days because rebound nasal congestion can occur." Painkillers can relieve fever, muscle aches and pains and headaches, but Marion cautions that you should be careful not to exceed recommended doses, as many OTC cough and cold medications also contain painkillers.
Fever: good or bad?
"A mild fever," says Bitting, "is an important part of recovery, especially in adults." It's a part of your body's immune response, helping fight off the infection faster, and isn't something to necessarily be concerned about in a healthy adult. Marion adds that if a mild fever is causing discomfort, you can take acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce it, but that "there is no compelling need to do that." High or persistent fevers, however, should be evaluated by a physician.
Page 2 of 3 – Does your cold or flu require a visit to the doctor's office? Marion shares seven symptoms that warrant a trip to see your doctor on page 3.
