Can you drink alcohol when you have a cold and a stuffy nose?

Written by Wang Chun Mei

Pulmonology

Updated on February 03, 2025

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A cold, also known as an upper respiratory tract infection, causes patients to experience symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing due to the congestion and swelling of the nasal mucous membrane from viral or bacterial infection. Some patients may also experience fever and coughing. Therefore, for patients with upper respiratory tract infections, it is not advisable to consume alcohol. Alcohol, which is spicy and stimulating, could worsen cold symptoms. Alcohol promotes blood circulation and can exacerbate congestion and swelling of the nasal and pharyngeal mucous membranes. Consequently, drinking alcohol can intensify symptoms like nasal congestion. Thus, it is not recommended to drink alcohol when experiencing nasal congestion during a cold.

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If a baby catches a cold in the summer, it is essential to take care of them by avoiding cross-infection. Additionally, pay attention to how the baby is dressed. If someone in the house has a cold, they should minimize contact with the baby and avoid sneezing, coughing, or kissing the baby to prevent cross-infection. Dressing the baby should be moderate during a summer cold; it's not about wearing more layers. The clothing should make sure the baby’s neck or chest and abdomen are warm without causing sweating. Keep the baby away from crowded places and, if possible, have them stay at home. If air conditioning is used, ensure to ventilate the room by opening windows 1-2 times a day, and keep the baby away from direct drafts. If the baby experiences nasal congestion or tends to choke while feeding due to the cold, it is crucial to avoid lying them down flat immediately after feeding. Instead, hold the baby upright or slightly elevate their head to prevent choking and worsening of the condition.

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How to treat a cold: Clinically, the treatment of colds mainly involves symptomatic treatment as well as antiviral etiological treatment. Colds are primarily divided into epidemic influenza and common colds. Comparatively, epidemic influenza has a longer duration and more severe symptoms. In children, colds mainly manifest as symptoms in the nasopharyngeal area. For symptomatic treatment, one can choose medications that influence gland secretion to treat a runny nose and sneezing. If symptoms like fever, soreness, or fatigue are present, one can take antipyretic and analgesic medications. At the same time, combine this with antiviral oral solutions or medications like Qingkailing to treat the virus.

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What should a pregnant woman do if she has a slight cold?

When pregnant women catch a mild cold, it is generally not recommended to take medicine for treatment. This is because some medications can have adverse effects on the growth and development of the fetus. It is advised in daily life to drink more warm water, as this can promote metabolism and eliminate some toxins from the body. It is also important to ensure sufficient sleep, avoid intense activities, maintain a pleasant mood, and fulfill the nutritional requirements of the body. It is recommended to eat fresh vegetables and fruits, and keep the diet light, avoiding spicy and stimulating foods. Also, avoid overly greasy and salty foods, and do not overwork or stay up late in daily life.

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What should I do if I have a cold?

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