All articles tagged with #symptom relief
The article provides guidance on choosing the best over-the-counter cold and flu medicines based on specific symptoms, ingredients, age, and health conditions, emphasizing checking ingredients to avoid duplication, considering generics for savings, and consulting healthcare professionals when necessary.
A study at the University of Gothenburg found that dietary adjustments were more effective than medications in reducing symptoms for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients, with over 70% experiencing significant relief. The research compared traditional IBS dietary advice, low FODMAP diet, and medication treatments, with the dietary approaches showing higher symptom reduction rates. The study emphasizes the central role of diet in IBS treatment and the need for personalized approaches in managing the condition.
Researchers at Brigham Young University have studied the effectiveness of ingredients in over-the-counter cold medications for symptom relief. They recommend dextromethorphan for coughs, pseudoephedrine for congested sinuses, and antihistamines for runny noses, with specific suggestions for nighttime and daytime use. They caution against overdoing acetaminophen or ibuprofen, especially if they are also present in cold medications, and emphasize the importance of paying attention to the ingredient panel. The advice is intended for adults and not for pregnant women, the elderly, or children, who require medications formulated for their age group.
When it comes to treating cold and flu symptoms, there are both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications available. OTC medications can be purchased without a prescription and are suitable for self-treatment of conditions like colds, allergies, headaches, and joint pain. Prescription medications, on the other hand, require authorization from a healthcare provider and are often more effective for treating the flu due to the availability of antiviral agents. However, OTC remedies can provide symptom relief a few hours earlier, although they may come with potential side effects. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before giving OTC medications to children, as they can cause serious side effects in young children. Additionally, it is crucial to read labels carefully and be aware of any potential interactions with prescription medications or underlying medical conditions. Ultimately, the best prevention against influenza is getting vaccinated and staying home when sick to avoid spreading the virus.
When navigating the overwhelming selection of combination cold remedies at the pharmacy, it's important to understand the active ingredients that target specific symptoms. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is effective for fever and pain relief, while ibuprofen (Motrin) can also reduce fever and body aches. Dextromethorphan (DM) is commonly used for coughs, and guaifenesin is an expectorant for loosening coughs. Phenylephrine, although commonly used for congestion, may not be effective and is being removed from some products. Antihistamines like doxylamine, diphenhydramine (Benadryl), brompheniramine, and chlorpheniramine can help with runny nose and congestion, but they may cause drowsiness. Pseudoephedrine, the most effective ingredient for congestion, is kept behind the pharmacy counter. It's recommended to use separate products for targeted symptom relief and consult with a pharmacist for guidance. Opting for generic versions can save money without compromising effectiveness.
A study by researchers at The University of New Mexico found that patients who reported feeling "High" experienced 7.7% greater symptom relief and an increase in reporting of positive side effects such as "Relaxed" and "Peaceful." However, these benefits must be weighed against a more than 20% increase in negative side effect reporting. Feeling high was highly correlated with a variety of side effects, including impairment and euphoria. THC levels were most strongly associated with feeling high, while using a vaporizer rather than combusting the cannabis flower was associated with a reduced likelihood of feeling high. The study concludes with recommendations for stakeholders, including caution against the cannabis industry's drive for ever-higher THC levels.