New Delhi, November 07, 2023: Dr Unnati Desai, the national lead for GP services at Nuffield Health, told Express.co.uk that there are two pills you should take as soon as you feel a cold coming on.
She recommends taking two painkillers – paracetamol and ibuprofen – together as soon as you feel like a cold is developing. “If you feel a cold coming on, [paracetamol and ibuprofen] should be taken together, in their generic forms [at adult doses] rather than as a combination tablet, if no allergies.”
she said. “This allows you to ensure you take the correct adult dose at the right time and allows you to decide when to take them.”
According to Dr Desai, most cold and flu tablets on the market contain less paracetamol and ibuprofen, which help to bring down temperatures.
Cold symptoms can include a sore throat, headache, muscle aches, and a raised temperature.
All symptoms of a cold, as listed by the NHS:
- A blocked or runny nose
- A sore throat
- Headaches
- Muscle aches
- Coughs
- Sneezing
- A raised temperature
- Pressure in your ears and face
- Loss of taste and smell.
As symptoms develop gradually, you are likely to register when a cold is about to come on.
Two painkillers are recommended by Dr Desai, who said they “should be taken together” the instant you feel like a cold is developing.
Additional tips to treat a cold, as shared by the NHS, include:
- Rest and sleep
- Drink plenty of water
- Gargle salt water for a sore throat.
People who have a high temperature and do not feel well enough to do their normal activities should try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people.
This is to curb the transmission of the virus that could easily infect others.
People are infectious with a cold until all the symptoms clear up, which can take up to two weeks.
How to stop a cold spreading
To help stop the spread of the virus, it’s important to follow some simple steps. When you have a cold, you can still pass it on until all your symptoms are gone, which could take up to a fortnight.
To help stop the spread of a cold, you should:
- Wash your hands often with warm water and soap
- Use tissues to trap germs when you cough or sneeze
- Throw away used tissues as quickly as possible
- If you have a cold, medicine can help make you feel better
But if you decide to take Dr Desai’s advice and take ibuprofen and paracetamol, you shouldn’t also take cough and cold medicines.
“Cough and cold medicines often also contain paracetamol and ibuprofen so it can be easy to take more than the recommended dose,” says the NHS. Also remember, the flu jab won’t stop you from catching a cold.
How you can help fight back naturally
If we catch a cold, our bodies need more nutrients and energy to combat it. As such, it’s recommended to have foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, calories, and protein. Eating the right foods can alleviate the symptoms and help you recover quicker.
Health and nutrition experts from Prepped Pots powered by MuscleFood.com listed eight cold-fighting foods that give the immune system a boost.
Vegetables
Vegetables are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support the immune system and overall health. Leafy greens, broccoli, and bell peppers can reduce inflammation which promotes healing. Carrots and sweet potatoes on the other hand can help with sore throat and blocked nose, as they provide vitamin A, which keeps mucous membranes healthy.
Citrus fruits
Oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and other citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which can strengthen your immune system. Incorporating citrus fruits into your diet can reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms. You can have the fruits on their own as a snack, enjoy them in a delicious fruit salad or yoghurt bowl, or diffuse them into water or hot beverages.
Chicken soup
Chicken soup has become a classic remedy for illness, and that’s because all elements of the meal are health-boosting. The hot broth helps relieve congestion and soothes a sore throat, chicken is packed with protein and vegetables are a great source of nutrients. It’s also a meal that’s easy to digest and provides a lot of hydration.
Greek yoghurt
Probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt can support a healthy gut, which plays an important role in maintaining a strong immune system. Opt for plain, unsweetened Greek yoghurt and add fresh fruits, berries or a bit of honey for flavour.
Berries
Berries are not only delicious, but they also have amazing health benefits. Strawberries, blueberries and raspberries are packed with antioxidants that can support your immune system, they also provide vitamins and minerals that promote overall health. Tuck into some berries if you want to have a supercharging snack.
Oatmeal
A warm bowl of oatmeal is gentle on your stomach and can have a soothing effect on a sore throat. Oatmeal is also a good source of carbohydrates, fibre, protein, vitamins and minerals – all helping to support the healing process.
Eggs
Eggs are a great cold-fighting food option, as they are rich in protein, zinc and vitamin D. They can also be prepared in various ways and are super easy to whip together when you don’t want to put too much effort into cooking. To reap all the health benefits, make sure to keep the yolks in when preparing eggs.
Garlic
Garlic is a natural remedy, known for its immune-boosting properties and its ability to help alleviate cold symptoms. Try incorporating garlic into your meals, for example add minced garlic into soups, stir-fries, stews or other dishes for a health boost.
