Flu Fighters: Top Cold & Flu Medicines

Introduction to Cold and Flu

We'll start by talking about what the cold and flu are, and how you can tell if you have them by looking at the symptoms.

What Is Cold and Flu?

Colds and flu are illnesses that can make you feel sick. They are caused by different viruses, which are tiny germs that can make you feel unwell. While colds are usually milder and can make you sneeze, have a runny nose, or a sore throat, the flu can make you feel really tired, have a high fever, body aches, and a cough.

Common Symptoms of Cold and Flu

When you have a cold, you might feel stuffy, sneeze a lot, or have a scratchy throat. On the other hand, the flu can make you feel much worse with a high fever, chills, and body aches. If you have these symptoms, it's important to rest and drink lots of fluids to help your body fight off the virus.

Finding Relief When You're Sick

When you're feeling under the weather with a cold or the flu, there are some simple things you can do at home to help you feel better. One of the best ways to find relief is to get plenty of rest. Your body needs time to recover, so make sure to take it easy and get lots of sleep.

Drinking water, juice, or warm tea can also help soothe a sore throat and keep you hydrated. Staying hydrated is important when you're sick because it can help loosen congestion and prevent dehydration.

You can also try using a humidifier in your room to add moisture to the air. This can help ease congestion and soothe a dry, scratchy throat. Taking a warm bath or shower can have a similar effect and help you feel more comfortable.

When to See a Clinician

Sometimes, home remedies may not be enough to help you feel better, and you may need to see a clinician. If your symptoms are severe, last longer than a week, or are getting worse instead of better, it's a good idea to seek medical help.

If you have trouble breathing, chest pain, a high fever that doesn't go down with medication, or if you're feeling very weak and dizzy, don't hesitate to see your pharmacist of physician. They can help determine the best course of action and provide you with the necessary treatment to get you back on your feet.  This may include antivirals or antibiotics, available by prescription only.

Over-the-Counter Medicine

Over-the-counter medicines or OTCs as they are commonly known,  are medicines you can buy without a doctor's note that can help you feel better when you have a cold or the flu. Let's take a look at what over-the-counter medicines are and how they can provide relief.

What Does Over-the-Counter Mean?

When we say a medicine is over-the-counter, it means you can purchase it at a store without needing a prescription from a doctor. These medicines are safe for most people to use without medical supervision. They are usually labeled with instructions on how to take them and what symptoms they can help with.

Choosing the Best Medicine

When you're looking for the best over-the-counter medicine for your cold or flu symptoms, it's essential to consider a few things. First, think about your specific symptoms. Do you have a stuffy nose, a cough, or body aches? Different medicines are designed to target specific symptoms, so choose one that matches what you're experiencing. You want to avoid using medicines that target the wrong symptoms to avoid side effects.

Next, consider your age and any other medical conditions you may have. Some medicines are not suitable for young children or people with certain health issues. Always read the label carefully and follow the recommended dosage instructions.

If you're not sure which medicine is right for you, don't hesitate to ask your pharmacist for help. They can provide guidance on selecting the most appropriate over-the-counter medicine to help you feel better.

Prescription Medications

Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is an antiviral medicine that helps people who have the flu. It works specifically against viruses like influenza.  When you're feeling under the weather with the flu, getting the right medication like oseltamivir can help you feel better faster.

Importantly, it can also be used to prevent the flu for others in your household or those you are in close contact with.  This is especially important for young children, older adults with reduced immune function and those who are immunosuppressed.

If you start feeling symptoms of the flu, like a fever, cough, or body aches, it might be time to consider taking Tamiflu. It works best when you start taking it within the first 48 hours of getting sick.

Staying Safe with Tamiflu

Clinicians make sure that Tamiflu is safe for people to take, but like any medicine, it can have some side effects or it may not be suitable for certain individuals. It's essential to follow your clinician's instructions and let them know if you experience any unusual symptoms.

How to get Influenza Treatment, including how to do it online.

If you're feeling sick and suspect you have the flu, the first step is to visit a clinician, such as a clinical pharmacist or physician. These clinicians are experts who can examine you, ask about your symptoms, and determine if Tamiflu is the right treatment for you. They will then write you a prescription that you can be used to get your medication.

Online Prescriptions: A New Way

Thanks to modern technology, you can now get a Tamiflu prescription without even leaving your home. Online healthcare platforms such as MedBox Online allow you to consult with a clinician virtually. You can discuss your symptoms, receive a diagnosis, and get a prescription all through your computer or smartphone. This convenient option is especially helpful if you're unable to visit a doctor in person or if you prefer the ease of online consultations.

Preventing Cold and Flu

One of the best ways to stay healthy and avoid getting sick with a cold or the flu is to practice good hygiene habits. Washing your hands regularly with soap and water can help get rid of germs that you might have picked up from touching surfaces like doorknobs or shared toys. Remember to scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds to make sure you get rid of all the germs.

Another important habit is to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze. This can help prevent the spread of germs to others around you. Make sure to throw away used tissues right away and wash your hands afterwards to keep yourself and others healthy.

Why Vaccines Are Helpful

Vaccines are like shields that protect your body from getting sick with certain diseases, including the flu and COVID-19. When you get a flu vaccine, your body learns how to recognize and fight off the flu virus if you come into contact with it. This can help you stay healthy and avoid getting sick during flu season.

Getting a flu vaccine is especially important for kids, older adults, and people with certain health conditions that make them more likely to get seriously ill from the flu. By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself but also those around you who might be at higher risk of getting sick.

Getting the best treatment

If you or a loved one are sick with a cold or flu, it may be necessary to see your clinician. MedBox Pharmacy Care Clinic is an in-store walk-in clinic designed to take care of your pressing needs without the wait. Our Pharmacy Care clinicians can help you and your family through our prescribing services.

Sometimes it can be difficult to see your clinician in person. Maybe it is a weekend or after hours and the clinics are closed. Or the it is difficult to bring the children in. Or you may need to work and cannot take time off.

This is where MedBox Online comes in.

With MedBox Online, you can quickly connect to a pharmacist clinician through your mobile device (smartphone or tablet), or computer, to get a reliable expert advice regardless of where you are.

It’s easy to use! Simply create your own free MedBox account, complete your medical profile information, and connect with a clinical pharmacist. Then tell us your symptoms and any other relevant information that we need.

Your clinician will assess your symptoms, and discuss your best options based on your assessment and preferences. If a prescription is needed, we will write it and if needed, a referral can be made to see another health care professional, such as a family doctor, nurse, emergency doctor or other provider.

Finally, we understand that questions can arise after hours. If you have questions about your MedBox Rx medications, you can contact a pharmacist – 24 hours a day, seven days a week through our emergency contact line or chat portal.

Conclusion

Throughout this blog post, we've explored the world of cold and flu, learning about the symptoms, finding relief when you're sick, the benefits of over-the-counter medicine, using medicine safely, and preventing cold and flu. Let's recap what we've discovered about flu relief and the best flu medicine.

Summary of Key Points

We've discovered that colds and flu are illnesses caused by different viruses, each with its own set of symptoms. When you're feeling under the weather, there are home remedies you can try to feel better, but sometimes it's necessary to seek help from a doctor. Over-the-counter medicines can provide relief, but it's crucial to choose the right one and use it correctly by reading labels and following directions. Additionally, preventing cold and flu through healthy habits and vaccines is the best way to stay well.

Final Thoughts

Remember, taking care of yourself when you're sick is essential, and knowing how to treat cold and flu symptoms can make a big difference in how quickly you recover. By following the tips and advice shared in this blog post, you can stay healthy and happy, even during cold and flu season. Stay well!

FAQs

Can I still go to school if I have a cold?

If you have a cold, it's best to stay home and rest. Going to school when you're sick can make you feel worse and spread germs to your classmates. It's important to take care of yourself and give your body time to recover.

How long does the flu usually last?

The flu can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. It's different for everyone, but getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids, and taking care of yourself can help you feel better faster. In some cases, the flu can turn into a bacterial infection.  If you or a loved one are not getting better, you will need to connect with a clinician.

Can medicine make my cold go away faster?

While medicine can help relieve some symptoms of a cold, like a stuffy nose or a cough, it won't make your cold go away faster. Colds are caused by viruses, and your body needs time to fight off the infection. The best way to help your body heal is to get plenty of rest, drink lots of fluids, and eat healthy foods.