A leading pharmacist has issued a crucial health warning to Brits this winter, revealing that a common approach to tackling colds and flu could be making people feel worse and prolonging their illness.
Expert Warns Against Common Medication Mistakes
With festive gatherings and plummeting temperatures increasing the spread of seasonal viruses, many reach for over-the-counter solutions. However, Frederick Apenteng, a pharmacist from Roseway Labs, states that several widespread misconceptions and medication errors are hindering recovery for countless people.
"Every year we see people struggling with lingering symptoms that could have been just a few days of mild discomfort," Apenteng explained. "Most of the time, it comes down to simple misconceptions about how to treat these viral infections."
Debunking Major Cold and Flu Myths
The expert highlighted several persistent myths that need correcting. Firstly, he addressed the belief that the flu jab can give you flu. "It doesn’t," he stated firmly. "The vaccine doesn’t contain a live virus, so it can’t cause illness. But it does train your immune system to fight it." He acknowledged that the immune response can trigger short-term mild symptoms like muscle aches, but this is fundamentally different from catching the flu itself.
Another critical myth is the use of antibiotics for viral infections. "Antibiotics only work against bacterial infections, not viral colds," Apenteng clarified. Using them unnecessarily won't speed up recovery and contributes to the serious global issue of antibiotic resistance.
He also dismissed the old wives' tale that you catch a cold from being cold. The real cause is viruses spread through sneezing, coughing, or contact with contaminated surfaces.
Key Over-the-Counter Blunders to Avoid
Pharmacist Frederick Apenteng pinpointed frequent mistakes people make when self-medicating:
- Choosing the Wrong Cough Syrup: Using a suppressant (like dextromethorphan) for a chesty, mucus-filled cough can trap phlegm. Conversely, using an expectorant (like guaifenesin) for a dry, tickly cough can worsen irritation.
- Nasal Spray Overuse: Decongestant sprays should only be used for a maximum of a few days. Prolonged use leads to a rebound effect, causing worse congestion than you started with.
- Doubling Up on Medication: Many combination cold and flu remedies already contain painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen. Taking additional doses separately risks an accidental overdose, which can be dangerous.
It's important to distinguish between a cold, which usually passes within a week, and flu, which is more severe and can last up to two weeks with symptoms like fever, chills, and debilitating body aches.
"Your local pharmacist can help you work out what you have and what will ease it," advised Apenteng. He urged people with underlying health conditions, the elderly, and pregnant women to be especially cautious and seek advice early.
The core message from the expert is clear: for most seasonal viruses, rest, plenty of fluids, and seeking tailored advice from a pharmacist are often more effective than reaching for unnecessary or incorrect medication. If symptoms persist, worsen, or cause breathing difficulties, consulting a GP is essential.
