When we were medical students, our teachers already told us: “A cold that you treat lasts 1 week, and the one that you don’t treat lasts 7 days”. This joke, which also applies to nasopharyngitis, is still true in the vast majority of cases. So you should not apply a remedy that will do more harm than the nasopharyngitis itself. I recommend that you beware of the side effects of over-the-counter drugs at the pharmacy. Oral decongestants can cause high blood pressure and heart problems. Caution should be exercised in people who already suffer from these diseases. Cold medicines are generally not recommended for children.

I advise to follow the hygiene measures described in this sheet and the use of a saline solution by inhalation, including in children. Finally, be aware of the signs of complications, especially in children: ear pain, persistent cough or wheezing or very quickly certainly deserve a consultation with your doctor.

Dr Jacques Allard  M.D.   FCMFC