Treating coughs and colds

Treating coughs and colds

Every change of season brings with it an epidemic of cough and colds. Children are the most vulnerable as they have a developing respiratory system and are frequently exposed to infection at school. Dr Meherbaan Singh, former Professor of Pediatrics, AIIMS, gives tips on how to tackle cough and colds:

* The common cold can be caused by over 200 types of viruses.

* The treatment is symptomatic. No medicines can cure a cold.

* Avoid medicated nose drops as it may cause rebound nasal congestion.

* Use antipyretic analgesic like Paracetamol to treat fever, body aches.

* Cough mixtures with decongestants, antihistamines and expectorants have limited benefits.

* If the cough becomes intractable and spasmodic, or when there is breathing difficulty, pain in the ear, etc., consult doctor without delay.