Cold & Flu Information
Often the main symptoms of an adult’s cold & flu can be sinus congestion, headache, a possible fever, blocked nasal passages, aches and pains.
Dimetapp offers you a range of products which help to relieve symptoms of cold and flu.
What is a cold?
Cold and flu may seem similar, but it’s important to understand the differences between the two.
The common cold is a viral infection of the nose, throat and nasal sinuses characterised by inflammation, discharge and nasal congestion.
On average, adults can get 2 – 4 colds each year. Children generally tend to get 5 – 7 colds a year.1, 2
Symptoms to look for include:
- sore throat
- runny nose
- post nasal drip
- watery eyes
- nasal stuffiness
- cough
A child with a cold may have a slight fever, but fever with a cold is unusual in adults.
What is the Flu?
Influenza, also known as the flu, is a viral infection of the air passages and lungs. The flu is caused by a different set of viruses to a cold, and although some symptoms are similar to a cold, symptoms of the flu tend to be more severe.
In addition to symptoms of a cold, a person suffering from the flu will also have muscular aches and pains, followed by a sudden onset of chills and fever developing over a 24-hour period. A severe headache is common, followed by a sore throat, a dry cough, sore or inflamed eyes and a general feeling of listlessness. Nausea and vomiting may occur in children.
What to do when you have a cold or a flu?
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially if you have a fever. Liquids are also soothing to a dry, irritated throat, and may help relieve coughing.
- Get adequate rest in a well-ventilated room.
- Use a cold-mist vaporiser to increase the humidity in the air. This can help loosen mucus and relieve a dry throat (be sure to clean the vaporiser after each use).
- Consider use of a symptomatic reliever, such as Dimetapp Cold, Cough and Flu products to help you get some well-deserved relief.
1. WebMD, Understanding the basics of a common cold: http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/understanding-common-cold-basics#1 Accessed 25/5/18
2. http://www.nps.org.au/conditions/respiratory-problems/respiratory-tract-infections/for-individuals/conditions/common-cold Accessed 25/5/18