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Colds

A cold is a "viral infection." There is no known cure for a viral infection and antibiotics are not effective in treating it.

Symptoms - Can last 7-10 days

  1. Scratchy or sore throat
  2. Stuffy head, nasal or sinus congestion
  3. Runny nose with clear nasal discharge
  4. Fever below 100.5 F
  5. Cough, dry or with clear mucus
  6. Fatigue
  7. Headache
  8. Achiness
  9. Hoarseness

Self Treatment - Do not treat with antibiotic

  1. Drink plenty of water and juices to combat dehydration.
  2. Warm drinks such as tea with lemon or honey help drain sinuses and sooth an irritated throat.
  3. Keep your room humidity high by using a vaporizer/humidifier.
  4. Take steamy showers; inhaling warm moist air will sooth inflamed nasal and chest mucus membranes.
  5. Rest.
  6. Use disposable tissues.
  7. Stop smoking and avoid being around smoke.
  8. Wash your hands with soap and water frequently throughout the day, especially after using the restroom.

Treat The Symptoms - Your cold misery can be more bearable by controlling the symptom.

Symptom Treatment

Sneezing, Runny Nose, Stuffy Head(Congestion)

  • Sudafed 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours (may cause more alertness and increased heartrate, so do not take too close to bedtime and take caution if you take Adderall or other ADD/ADHD medications).
  • Mucinex 1 tablet every 12 hours (helps to thin out secretions and make it easier to cough out).
  • Mucinex-D ( is a combination of the above 2 products)
  • Antihistamine of choice (Benadryl or Chlorpheniramine) every 4-6 hours (may cause drowsiness), or Clartin (Loratadine) once daily

Fever below 100.5°, Body Aches

  • Tylenol (Acetaminophen) 2 tablets every 4-6 hours or Motrin/Advil (Ibuprofen) 2 tablets every 6-8 hours with a meal.

Cough

  • Robitussin DM or Delsym (no alcohol)

Sore Throat, Hoarseness

  • Throat lozenges or hard candy
  • Warm salt water gargles

Health Service Visit Recommended If:

  1. Fever is greater than 100.5° for longer than 2 days.
  2. Pain, tenderness or pressure around eyes.
  3. Discolored nasal drainage.
  4. White patches on back of throat or tonsils.
  5. Extremely red throat.
  6. Cough producing discolored mucus.
  7. Painful breathing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
  8. Chronic, unusual fatigue.
  9. Neck glands swollen.