Are Pain Relievers Safe
If you take them properly and follow the label instructions, OTC painkillers are safe for most people. But if you need pain relief for more than 10 days, talk to your doctor.
Although they’re usually safe, side effects can occur and may be quite serious for some people. For instance, if you use blood-thinning medicine or have active stomach or bowel ulcers, don’t take aspirin or other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen.
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Children and teens with chickenpox, the flu, or a fever shouldn’t take aspirin because of the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a potentially serious medical condition. And the FDA and drugmakers say that over-the-counter cough and cold medicines should not be given to children under age 4.
Some doctors say that people with asthma should avoid aspirin because they get short of breath.
NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, ketoprofen, and naproxen, may also cause stomach upset. They can also cause fluid buildup, leading to swelling as well as kidney and liver failure.
People with asthma are at higher risk for serious allergic reactions to NSAIDs. These pain relievers can also increase blood pressure, especially if you already have high blood pressure.
Acetaminophen is easier on the stomach than NSAIDs, but it can cause liver damage if you take more than it says on the instructions, particularly if you drink alcohol. You shouldn’t take it if you already have liver disease or if you regularly drink moderate to heavy amounts of alcohol.
To Decongest A Runny Or Stuffy Nose
Examples: Advil Cold & Sinus Liqui-Gels Dristan 12-hr Nasal Spray Otrivin Complete Nasal Care Sudafed Head Cold & Sinus Tylenol Sinus.
How they work: If you are experiencing nasal congestion on top of other cold and flu symptoms such as fever, reach for one of these. Most of these oral remedies combine acetaminophen or ibuprofen with pseudoephedrine hydrochloride, which decongests the nasal passages. It constricts the blood vessels and shrinks the swollen mucous membranes, says Kalyn. If youre seeking relief for a stuffy nose alone, then nasal decongestant sprays like Dristan or Otrivin can help, as these drugs work similarly to pseudoephedrine.
Need to know: Follow package directions. Reactions to oral decongestants vary depending on the person. They can have a stimulating effect and can raise heart rate and blood pressure, which can make you feel a bit loopy, says Kalyn. Avoid them completely if you have a metabolic condition that is not well controlled. In such cases, nasal sprays may be a good alternative, but since they can cause rebound congestion, dont use them for more than five consecutive days.
Try: Advil Cold & Sinus, $9, well.ca
Will An Antibiotic Work For The Flu
The short answer is simply this: no. The flu is caused by a virus, Dr. Blad says. Antibiotics are utilized for treating infections caused by bacteria and are not effective for treating the flu.
Dr. Wilkes agrees, and adds that antiviral medicationslike the ones listed abovecan improve symptoms and decrease the severity and duration of influenza.
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Who Should Take Antiviral Drugs
Its very important that flu antiviral drugs are started as soon as possible to treat patients who are hospitalized with flu, people who are very sick with flu but who do not need to be hospitalized, and people who are at higher risk of serious flu complications based on their age or health, if they develop flu symptoms. Although other people with mild illness who are not at higher risk of flu complications may also be treated early with antiviral drugs by their doctor, most people who are otherwise healthy and not at higher risk for flu complications do not need to be treated with antiviral drugs.
Following is a list of all the health and age factors that are known to increase a persons risk of getting serious complications from flu:
- Asthma
- Blood disorders
- Chronic lung disease
- Endocrine disorders
- Heart disease
- Kidney disorders
- Metabolic disorders
- People who are obese with a body mass index of 40 or higher
- People younger than 19 years of age on long-term aspirin- or salicylate-containing medications.
- People with a weakened immune system due to disease or medications
Other people at higher risk from flu:
Body Aches From The Flu: 3 Quick Ways To Get Rid Of Them
2018/03/05 by Meital James
This winter was the first time I experienced body aches from the flu.
Until then, I only suffered from the usual high fever, coughs, headaches and general weakness and helplessness caused by the flu virus.
And I can tell you one thing:
Im a bit traumatized by this new achievement.
Aching muscles and joints make this whole flu thing so much worse.
Everything hurts. I think even my earlobes hurt.
I had to get rid of it fast.
And I DID.
Ive found 3 amazingly helpful home remedies and fixes for flu body aches combining all of them has gotten rid of my body aches in just a few hours.
Ill be sharing these natural remedies below, plus the quickest fix for flu muscle pain .
Page Contents
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Body Aches What To Do For This Common Flu And Covid
During the fall and winter seasons, infectious diseases begin to emerge such as strep throat, influenza, rhinovirus, adenovirus, the common cold and, this year, COVID-19. Viral infections like the flu can cause muscle soreness called myalgias, often referred to as body aches. Myalgias are a result of the body working to heal itself. Other causes of myalgias include vitamin and mineral deficiencies such as vitamin D and potassium.
The good news is that body aches like many other symptoms of these common viruses can often be treated at home with the right over the counter medications and a little self-care.
Here are the dos and donts of managing body aches.
What Is The Flu In Children
Influenza is a very contagious viral infection that affects the air passages of the lungs. It causes a high fever, body aches, a cough, and other symptoms. It is one of the most severe and common viral illnesses of the winter season. Most children are ill with the flu for less than a week. But some children have a more serious illness and may need to be treated in the hospital. The flu may also lead to lung infection or death.
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Body Aches And Chills
There are over 90 serious health problems in which a person can experience body aches or generalized pain along with chills or at least sensitivity to cold. Because many of these problems require medical care, the best advice if you have body aches and chills is to promptly go to your family doctor for an evaluation to determine the cause of your complaints.
Just a partial list of those conditions which cause severe body aches and chills:
- Lyme disease.
- Iron poisoning.
Bayer Aspirin Back & Body Coated Tablets
One of the best brand names for aspirin is Bayer Back & Body Extra Strength Fast Relief. This product contains 500mg of aspirin per dosage, and a small amount of caffeine. This helps fight off the drowsiness that the NSAID might cause, making it an effective non-drowsy formula for people on the go.
What people particularly like about the product is that its safe and side-effect free. The coated tablets make it possible to avoid stomach irritation, which is a common problem people experience after taking an aspirin dosage. The only issue that some people have with the product is that it doesnt work so well in treating headaches, migraines, or stomach aches.
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Capsaicin And Coconut Oil For Body Aches
Capsaicin is one of the best natural home remedies for body aches.
Coconut is also important for the treatment of most body illnesses and health challenges.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
Directions
- Mix 2 tablespoons of coconut oil with 2 tablespoons of capsaicin powder.
- Rub the mixture on affected areas.
- Let it sit for a few hours.
- Repeat this process for as long as you need to.
Citrem: Cures Fever And Symptoms Of Flu
- Brand name Citrum plus
- Composition Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride, Phenylephrine HCL, Ambroxol HCl and Paracetamol
- Popularity level 5
- This is the best medicine used to treat fever and allergic problems. This medication is used for nasal congestion, allergic rhinitis, and fever with a cold. For an asthmatic patient, this medication is recommended.
- Dosage This medicine comes in the form of 500mg tablets which are meant to be taken once in a day or as prescribed by the doctor.
- Price Citrem tablets are supplied in a strip of 10 tablets. Each strip costs around 15
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Urgent Advice: Get Advice From 111 Now If:
- you’re worried about your baby’s or child’s symptoms
- you’re 65 or over
- you’re pregnant
- you have a long-term medical condition for example, diabetes or a heart, lung, kidney or neurological disease
- you have a weakened immune system for example, because of chemotherapy or HIV
- your symptoms do not improve after 7 days
111 will tell you what to do. They can arrange a phone call from a nurse or doctor if you need one.
Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111.
The Ultimate Fix A Heated Massage Pillow
When I was suffering from flu aches and pains all overall I wanted was a massage.
I dont know why, but I literally heard a voice in my head demanding a massage, knowing its the best remedy for me right now.
Somehow I got out of bed and took out my old friend my Shiatsu infrared heat massage cushion.
My Shiatsu infrared massage pillow
I placed it behind my lower back, turned it on, and closed my eyes.
The kneading Shiatsu rollers started working, while the soothing heat gradually increased.
The relief I felt was almost immediate.
It was exactly what I needed.
After 40 minutes of moving the pillow all over my aching body I turned it off and drifted to a peaceful sleep pain-free.
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What About Herbal Remedies
Every flu season, people ask their pharmacists if things like vitamin C, echinacea, or probiotics will prevent them from getting sick. Sadly, most of the claims about these products arent supported by much evidence.
One product said to help prevent the flu is Oscillococcinum, a homeopathic remedy made from wild duck heart and liver extracts. Research shows there is no difference between taking Oscillococcinum and a placebo pill .
Another commonly asked about product is echinacea, which is said to boost your immune system. The research available focuses on if it wards off the common cold, but those studies show echinacea doesnt protect you any better than a placebo.
Two natural remedies that may be helpful if you have the flu are elderberry syrup and honey. In a small study, people who took elderberry syrup felt better 4 days earlier than those who didnt. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding as well as children under 18 should avoid this product because we dont know if its safe for them to use it. As for honey, it is just as effective at quieting a cough as dextromethorphan. Honey should never be given to infants under 1 year old, though, and if you have diabetes, it could raise your blood sugar levels.
Always ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if taking herbal supplements is OK. They have side effects and can interact with other medications. To read more in depth about herbal treatments and the flu, click here.
Best Medicines For Body Aches 2020
Whether its because of work or simply because you overworked your body while you were at the gym, body aches arent something anyone wants to deal with. Because these pains can be very limiting and restrictive, its important to make sure you relieve them as soon as possible so you can get back to your usual, everyday functioning and performance.
Lots of body pain medications are sold over the counter but very few actually provide reliable, significant results. Thats why it has become all too easy to purchase all the wrong products.
Save yourself from the unnecessary expense and make sure you buy the best medicine for body aches on your first try by following this helpful buying guide.
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Whole Fruits And Veggies
Eating naturally vitamin-rich produce is important for health regardless of whether youve been exposed to the novel coronavirus. But these whole, anti-inflammatory foods have promising benefits for accelerating your recovery. A study published in September 2021 in the journal Gut found that a plant-based diet not only lowered risk of developing COVID-19, but also reduced symptom severity for those who contracted the virus. You already know potatoes are beneficial, but try opting, too, for other choices, like watermelon, strawberries, cucumbers, and iceberg lettuce, which shine due to their high water content, as the Cleveland Clinic notes.
The Best Treatment For Aches Pain And Fever
When you’re sick, all you want is to feel better. It may take a while for your body to fight off what ails you, but relief from your aches and fever can come sooner.
You can treat many common symptoms of colds, the flu, and sinus infections with over-the-counter medications and some simple self-care.
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What Should I Do If I Think I Am Sick With Flu
If you get sick with flu, antiviral drugs are a treatment option. Check with your doctor promptly if you are at higher risk of serious flu complications and you develop flu symptoms. Flu signs and symptoms can include feeling feverish or having a fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs to treat your flu illness.
Do You Have A Cold Or The Flu
You feel a tickle in your throat, and then a headache coming on. You start to sniffle or sneeze, and suddenly you feel really tired. You know youre coming down with something but is it a cold, or do you have the flu?
With both conditions your symptoms can include a sore throat, runny nose, headache, body aches, chills, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and sometimes diarrhea, says Dr. Denise Campbell-Scherer, an associate professor in the department of family medicine at the University of Alberta. The main difference is that with the flu, youll have a temperature above 37.8°C. Flu symptoms also tend to come on suddenly, are more severe and are at their worst for the first three or four days after that, it can take up to two weeks before you feel better. A cold can linger anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, although one week is typical.
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Feeling Sick Heres How To Tell If You Have Coronavirus Flu Cold Or Allergies
Your guide to knowing whether you may have COVID-19, the flu, the common cold, or allergies. Jacob Hamilton | The Ann Arbor N
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. As the omicron variant of the coronavirus spreads across the United States, any sign of a symptom could have you worried youve contracted the virus.
But COVID-19, the common cold, seasonal allergies, and the flu cause many similar symptoms. So how can you tell if you have one or the other?
According to the Mayo Clinic, a non-profit American academic medical center, its important to understand the differences in symptoms that the illnesses cause, how the illnesses spread, how they are treated, and how they can be prevented.
CORONAVIRUS SYMPTOMS
The Mayo Clinic analyzed each illness and the most common symptoms.
Coronavirus symptoms are typically fever, cough, and tiredness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , other symptoms include difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, and new loss of taste or smell.
While COVID-19 symptoms typically appear 2 to 14 days after exposure, symptoms of the common cold usually appear one to three days after exposure.
COMMON COLD SYMPTOMS
Cough, sore throat, and runny nose are the most common symptoms of a cold. Other symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, tiredness, and sneezing.
FLU SYMPTOMS
Flu symptoms usually appear about one to four days after exposure.
SEASONAL ALLERGIES
Which Children Are At Risk For The Flu
A child is more at risk for the flu if he or she:
-
Is around people infected with the flu
-
Has not had the flu vaccine
-
Does not wash his or her hands after touching infected surfaces
Young children and children with certain underlying health conditions are at increased risk for a hospital stay or severe or complicated influenza infection.
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What Causes Body Aches When You Have The Flu
Pain in the muscles and joints all over the body is one of the most common flu symptoms, along with fever, runny nose, cough, headaches, fatigue, and loads of self-pity.
Why does your entire body ache when you have the flu?
Well, these aches and pains are actually caused by our bodys own immune system.
While fighting the infections caused by the flu virus, white blood cells release a chemical called cytokines, which causes inflammation in your muscles and joints, and pain that feels much like mild arthritis or rheumatism.
Plus, when the white cells are busy fighting the infection, they have no time to fix the normal daily wear and tear in your muscle and joint tissues.