Tips on surviving the cold and flu season

Cold and flu season is rapidly approaching, and consumers will have a wide array of over-the-counter medications to treat their symptoms. With many products treating multiple ailments- from runny nose to fever- it's important to choose the right one.

The first stop in fighting cold and flu is to avoid spreading germs. Individuals should practice frequent hand washing, avoid contact with those affected with cold and flu, and use a germ-killing disinfectant to clean surfaces.

Medications should be selected carefully. Before taking cold or flu medicine, a physician or pharmacist should be consulted about any existing health conditions, medications currently taken and the specific symptoms.

Before purchasing overthecounter medication, always check to see that the product is right for the symptoms and avoid medicines that treat nonexisting symptoms.

Following is a list of different types of flu medication:

•Analgesics relieve aches and pains and reduce fever.

•Antihistamines block histamines, helping to dry a runny nose, watery eyes and prevent postnasal drip.

•Cough suppressants quiet a cough and are advised for dry coughs which are not producing mucus.

•Decongestants reduce congestion in the nose and sinuses.

•Expectorants thin mucus so it can be coughed up more easily.

Those taking prescription medications should check with a pharmacist or physician to determine if there are any overthecounter medicines that should be avoided. Some OTC medications weaken or strengthen a prescription drug's effectiveness or can cause dangerous interactions.

•Patients with high blood pressure should avoid cold and flu products containing nasal decongestants or active ingredients like pseudoephedrine.

•Anyone with thyroid disorders, asthma or diabetes should discuss with their pharmacist or physicians which OTC products are safe based on their current medications.

•The appropriate dosing of children's medications usually involves a medicine dropper or syringe. Talk to a pharmacist about the best way to accurately administer medications to children.

The Centers for Disease control recommends a yearly flu vaccination, especially for people ages 50 and older, healthcare providers, pregnant women and those with chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma and heart disease.

This story is provided by CVS/ pharmacy.