6 FAITH REGIONAL Health Services What works Even though you have to wait for a cold to run its course, you may be able to ease symptoms with the following: • Resting. • Drinking plenty of fluids. • Using a clean humidifier or cool mist vaporizer. • Rinsing the nose with saline nasal spray or drops. • Taking a steamy bath. • Swallowing some honey for cough relief. (Don’t give honey to a child younger than 1 year old.) • Using an over-the-counter medicine or inhaler, as recommended by your doctor or pharmacist. • Using oral zinc products. What doesn’t work It’s important to know that antibiotics are not effective for treating the common cold. They are only effective at treating illnesses caused by bacteria, not viruses. And their overuse can cause adverse symptoms. Likewise, many alternative products and supplements, such as echinacea, have not been proven to be effective at treating the common cold. Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; National Institutes of Health; UpToDate If you’re experiencing illness this season, come see us. Hours Monday and Wednesday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Faith Regional Physician Services Urgent Care 2600 W. Norfolk Ave., Norfolk, Nebraska Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. When it comes to colds, there is a lot of information out there about how to treat them—and not all of it is correct. Perhaps it’s because the symptoms can be so miserable, from a sore throat to postnasal drip. There’s no cure for the common cold, but certain things do help ease the symptoms. Here’s a rundown of what does and doesn’t work for treating colds. When should you see a doctor? Cold symptoms can last from two days to two weeks. Seek medical attention for any severe symptoms or serious complications, including the following: • Difficulty breathing, fast breathing or wheezing. • Dehydration. • Fever above 102 degrees or fever for longer than a few days. • Chest pain or pressure. • Ear pain. • Sinus headache. • Symptoms that last more than 10 days without improving. • Symptoms that worsen or that improve but then return or worsen. with the common cold Coping Urgent care when you need it
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