Do you need to take medicine for a cold with nasal congestion?

Written by Wang Chun Mei
Pulmonology
Updated on November 13, 2024
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Nasal congestion due to a cold is very common in clinical practice. The need for medication depends on the type of cold and the patient's own immune function. If the patient has a cold caused by a viral infection and the symptoms are not severe, or if the patient generally likes to exercise and is young, a mild cold may not require medication and can heal on its own within about a week. For children or elderly individuals with weaker resistance, when an upper respiratory infection occurs, it is advisable to administer some medication for symptomatic treatment to prevent the condition from worsening and to avoid unnecessary complications.

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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Is it good for a baby to sweat when they have a cold?

Sweating in infants with a cold is not a matter of good or bad. It is a response and manifestation of the cold in infants, which is generally considered to be caused by respiratory or intestinal viral infections. Such pathogens attacking the child's body can lead to a relatively weakened constitution, making them prone to sweating. Moreover, if the child has varying degrees of fever, the body can also regulate itself and lower the body temperature back to normal through sweating. In such cases, it is only necessary to ensure that the child is adequately hydrated to prevent dehydration, treat the virus causing the cold, provide symptomatic supportive treatment, and manage the diet properly.

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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What department should I go to for a baby's cold?

Infant colds are diseases caused by respiratory or gastrointestinal viral infections, and onset is usually sudden. The registration for a doctor's visit may vary depending on the timing. If it's during normal working hours, then a visit to the pediatric outpatient clinic is usually sufficient. However, if it's during off hours, such as at noon, evening, weekends, or public holidays, then a visit to the pediatric emergency department is generally required. Additionally, depending on the symptoms accompanying the cold, a sub-specialty within pediatrics can be chosen. For instance, if the infant cold includes significant respiratory symptoms, then a visit to the pediatric respiratory medicine outpatient clinic is appropriate. If the cold comes with gastrointestinal symptoms, then the pediatric gastroenterology outpatient clinic is suitable.

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Written by Han Shun Li
Pulmonology
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How to deal with chronic colds?

Colds, generally speaking, are not serious illnesses. However, if one suffers from frequent colds with recurring symptoms, it can significantly affect the patient and severely impact their quality of life. So, what should be done? Typically, if one frequently catches colds, it indicates that the patient's immune system is relatively weak. Therefore, it is recommended to regularly exercise, engage in physical activities, and spend time outdoors to boost immunity and enhance the body's adaptability. Additionally, with seasonal changes, it is important to change clothing promptly to avoid getting cold. Regular rest and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are crucial; avoid smoking and drinking. During the cold season, it's wise to drink more water, ensure rooms are well-ventilated, and avoid crowded places as much as possible to specifically prevent catching a cold.

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Written by Zhang Shu Kun
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Symptoms of colds caused by wind-cold

The symptoms of a cold caused by wind-cold primarily include feeling chills, headache, and respiratory symptoms such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, coughing, and sneezing. Additionally, symptoms like dry mouth and reluctance to drink water may appear. It is advised to keep warm regularly to avoid catching a cold. In terms of diet, it is best to avoid spicy and irritating foods, and it is recommended to consume more fresh fruits and vegetables. Drinking more plain water can effectively alleviate symptoms. If the condition is severe, it is best to go to a formal hospital and receive treatment according to the doctor's guidance.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Can you eat eggs when you have a cold and headache?

When you have a cold and a headache, you can certainly eat eggs. First, it's important to properly understand the cold, which is a type of self-limiting infectious disease. Clinically, it is mainly divided into the common cold and the influenza. During a cold, in terms of diet, avoid foods that are too greasy, irritating, or spicy. Foods like eggs and milk are fine to eat. Drink more millet porridge and eat more vegetables and fruits such as celery, spinach, mung bean sprouts, tomatoes, carrots, and kiwi, which are rich in Vitamin C. These can help promote recovery of bodily functions and aid in alleviating symptoms of a cold. Also, drink plenty of water and get plenty of rest.