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Self-help
Here are some self-help tips to make life easier:
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Blocked or painful ears and catarrh: Nasal decongestants
could help the tubes connecting your ears to your throat which
can cause dull hearing when they are blocked. Menthol vapour
may also help. Add a few drops to a basin of hot (not boiling)
water and breathe in through your nose. Kill pain with Paracetamol
of Ibuprofen.
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Runny nose: Stop the drip
with a decongestant nasal spray or tablets.
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Sore throat and swollen
glands: Many people find that gargling with soluble aspirin
really works (not for children under 12) or people taking other
painkillers or medicines for stomach and joint problems. Alternatively
try medicated lozenges which can also help, but, READ THE LABEL,
taking too many can make things worse. Most sore throats don’t
need antibiotics.
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Cough: Wet coughs with
phlegm need different treatment from dry coughs. Your pharmacist
can advise you on the best treatment. See your doctor if you
cough up blood, or if it lasts longer than a couple of weeks.
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If a child complains of
a sore throat, that the light is hurting their eyes, or has
a blue/red rash which doesn’t turn white when pressed
with a glass tumbler, it could be meningitis. Dial 999 and call
an ambulance. Do the same if the child has a fit or displays
any unusual symptoms.
Always read the instructions on the label before taking
all medicines and follow any advice given to you by your pharmacist.
Home remedies:
Surprisingly simple home remedies can also help
you to get to grips with the worst symptoms.
- Drink plenty of non-alcoholic drinks. This replaces
water lost through sweating and keeps your chest, nose lining
and mucus moist which helps to get rid of viruses.
- Avoid heavy exercise. If you need to stay
in bed, then tell your employer you will be off for a few days.
You will be doing your work mates a favour by keeping the virus
to yourself.
- Keep your bedroom warm but ventilated
and try not to get chilled or overheated.
- Vitamin C and Cod Liver Oil supplements
can help maintain your natural immune system.
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Cold
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