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Common colds (head colds) have a range of annoying symptoms including cough, sore throat, blocked or runny nose, sneezing and flu-like symptoms. They can last for a couple of weeks and can be treated with products available from a pharmacy.
Surgery receptionists are encouraged to refer patients with these symptoms to a pharmacist rather than using up a GP appointment.
What Causes Common Colds
Common colds are caused by rhinoviruses which are a type of respiratory virus that inflame the membranes of the nose and throat. Viruses are spread when sneezing, and also by contact with an infected person.
NHS Information for Patients
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/common-cold
Symptoms might also include muscle aches, hoarse voice, high temperature and generally feeling quite tired and unwell. These are also flu-like symptoms, and the above NHS link can help to tell the difference.
Help at the Pharmacy
There are various treatments available from pharmacies to help with cough and cold symptoms, although not all treatments will help with all symptoms. A pharmacist can advise you on the best medicine for your most troublesome symptoms. The NHS link helpfully lists what is available, such as:
- medicines like paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease aches or lower a temperature
- decongestant nasal sprays, drops or tablets to unblock your nose (decongestants should not be used by children under 6)
- vapour rubs to help ease chesty coughs in babies and small children
You can buy nasal sprays without a prescription, but they should not be used for more than a week as this can make your symptoms worse.
Menthol and eucalyptus containing lozenges can provide remarkable relief, albeit temporary.
Do not use cough and cold medicines containing paracetamol or ibuprofen if you’re also taking paracetamol and ibuprofen tablets, as you may take more medicine than you should.
Some cough and cold medicines are also not suitable for babies, children and pregnant women. Follow the above NHS link for more information on these important points.
If symptoms get worse
Some people may experience worsening symptoms.
Sore Throat – follow this link for further information on this symptom.
Painful Blocked Sinuses – follow this link for further information on this symptom
Earache – follow this link for further information on this symptom
Flu-like Symptoms or Influenza – follow this link for further NHS information on influenza.
Chest & Breathing – sometimes a head cold can lead to respiratory tract and chest infections and cause wheeziness and a productive cough. (bronchitis) Contact your GP if this happens, especially of you have asthma, COPD, or are immunosuppressed.