Can Nasal Allergy Medication Treat the Common Cold?

Treatment of Colds with Nasal Medications and General Advice

While some nasal medications can alleviate cold symptoms, most cold remedies are ineffective. Commonly prescribed medications during colds are compound formulations, containing antipyretics, analgesics, antihistamines, and antivirals. It is recommended that patients take medications under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

1. Antipyretics and Analgesics

If symptoms like fever and headache occur during a cold, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be administered under medical supervision to alleviate headache and muscle soreness caused by the cold.

2. Antihistamines

For nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing, medications like chlorpheniramine and diphenhydramine can be prescribed by a doctor to alleviate these symptoms.

3. Antivirals

If the cold is caused by a virus, antivirals such as ribavirin and oseltamivir can be prescribed. In cases of concurrent bacterial infection, antibiotics like ceftazidime and amoxicillin can be administered based on the patient's drug sensitivity test results.

4. Other Medications

Some traditional Chinese medicines, like Banlangen Granules and Ganmao Qingre Granules, can also treat colds, alleviating symptoms like cough and nasal congestion. For patients with cough and yellow phlegm, expectorants like Compound Licorice Oral Solution and Ambroxol Hydrochloride Oral Solution can be used.

During a cold, it's important to stay warm, avoid getting chilled, drink plenty of water, and consume fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, such as spinach and apples. Avoid spicy foods like hot pot to aid recovery. Additionally, maintain good sleep habits, wake up early, engage in exercises like running to enhance physical fitness.