With the weather changing, your immune system might be attempting to re-adjust to suit the season. And in between, this may lead to the development of common colds and viruses that may make you feel under the weather. However, there are many ways you can take care of yourself when you’re feeling under the weather, from prescribed medication to simple treatments you can do from the comfort of your own home.
The Common Cold
If your Symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, sore throat, cough and/or mild fatigue, you may have the common cold. This is usually not serious, and symptoms can be relieved by doing a few things.
Try inhaling steam to help loosen the mucus and clear your head – this can also be done as you take a warm shower or simply by sitting in the bathroom with the shower running. Make sure you drink plenty of liquids to stay hydrated, including warm liquids such as soup to help clear mucus.
The best you can do is get a lot of sleep and rest, and if you consider nonprescription cold medication, please Consult your healthcare provider.
Viral Infection
If your Symptoms Include nausea, queasiness, vomiting, abdominal cramping, bloating and/or fever that last between a few hours and a few days, you may have a viral infection.
Consider that vomiting may also be caused by food poisoning, pregnancy, medications or other underlying problems such as gallbladder disease, ulcers, or bowel obstruction. If you are at all worried, please consult your doctor.
You can ease the symptoms of a viral infection by drinking plenty of liquids to prevent dehydration, don’t eat or drink until you feel your stomach settle, try to avoid dairy, fatty and greasy foods for a few days and finally, avoid caffeine, alcohol and nicotine products. If symptoms persist and worsens, please consult your doctor n how best to treat this.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
If your symptoms include heartburn, stomach acid rising, a sour taste in the mouth, burning in the throat and pain in the chest, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Occasional heartburn can usually be relieved with over-the-counter medication, but if this is or any of the other symptoms occur consistent, it is best to consult a professional for advice and a check-up. There are many options to treat GERD. Talk to your doctor to see which treatment is most suitable for you.
This may include antacids, which are available without prescription and primarily used for heartburn and temporary relief of the symptoms. H2 blockers are available both by prescription or over the counter. It is best to consult your doctor to develop a treatment plan best suited for you.
Most proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are available only by prescription. Dexilant is classed under this and, like most PPIs, work by blocking the final stage of acid production, effective in relieving heartburn, difficulty in swallowing and persistent in many people as well as help heal acid damage to the stomach and esophagus, aids in ulcer prevention and may even prevent cancer of the esophagus. Dexilant is usually available in does of 30mg and 60mg capsules for adult use.
It’s best to notify your doctor of any other medication you are currently taking as Dexilant may interact with the HIV medication atazanavir, ampicillin esters, digoxin, iron salts, ketoconazole, warfarin, tacrolimus, or clopidogrel. This drug must only be used when prescribed if used during pregnancy.
Ultimately it is best to consult your doctor if you are ever in doubt that your symptoms are getting better and the simple treatments do not work.
