Posted on Dec 1, 2023
What works for treating the common cold? Many doctors say 'not much'
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https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2023/11/30/ [login to see] /what-works-for-treating-the-common-cold-many-doctors-say-not-much
When you stroll down the cold and flu aisle in a drugstore, it's easy to get lost in the dizzying array of products promising to clear sinus pressure, dry up sniffles and stop plaguing coughs. Some concoctions even offer it all in one magical pill.
But doctors say the science behind some of those claims is lackluster.
"There's just not much that's very effective for treating the common cold," said Dr. Lauren Eggert, clinical assistant professor in the Pulmonary Allergy and Critical Care Division at Stanford University.
"Most of the things out there — antihistamines, decongestants, cough medicines — none of them have a lot of evidence that they're super effective at improving cough or common cold symptoms."
When you stroll down the cold and flu aisle in a drugstore, it's easy to get lost in the dizzying array of products promising to clear sinus pressure, dry up sniffles and stop plaguing coughs. Some concoctions even offer it all in one magical pill.
But doctors say the science behind some of those claims is lackluster.
"There's just not much that's very effective for treating the common cold," said Dr. Lauren Eggert, clinical assistant professor in the Pulmonary Allergy and Critical Care Division at Stanford University.
"Most of the things out there — antihistamines, decongestants, cough medicines — none of them have a lot of evidence that they're super effective at improving cough or common cold symptoms."
What works for treating the common cold? Many doctors say 'not much'
Posted from npr.org
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Posted 1 y ago
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Sudafed or its equivilant is what helps my congestion. The rest seems not to work for me
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SGT (Join to see)
PO1 William "Chip" Nagel - But you can always take precautions. Dare I say the M word. Masks.
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During the winter I increase my intake of garlic and onions for their antibacterial/viral properties plus they end up in my soups during the winter. Black Tea is also a must.
I've noticed that peppermint clears my sinuses.
I've noticed that peppermint clears my sinuses.
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PO1 William "Chip" Nagel
SGT (Join to see) Excellent Old School, Before there was Antibiotics there was "Sulfa Drugs" (Sulfur) Onions and Garlic the Smell and Taste comes from Sulfur. Peppermint has always been good for that!
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