Don’t Ignore That First Cough : What to Do in the First 24 Hours
9 June, 2025
That scratchy throat, stuffy nose, and nagging cough— it could be a sign, a cold is coming. A quick act to get the essentials can make all the difference between a quick recovery or a week stuck in bed.
Antibiotics Aren’t the Answer
Antibiotics are designed to fight bacterial infections—not viruses. Since viruses cause 70-80% of the common cold, antibiotics won’t help you recover and may even contribute to antibiotic resistance if misused. The common cold, also known as an upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), is highly contagious and spreads easily through airborne droplets. It’s possible to catch a cold from a quick interaction or by touching contaminated surfaces.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a “Common” Cold
While most colds resolve on their own, they shouldn’t be dismissed. If left unmanaged, a cold can lead to complications such as sinus infections, bronchitis, or, in rare cases, more serious conditions—particularly in people with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems.
That’s why early symptom management is essential. The typical progression of a cold happens in three stages:
Act Fast!
Most viral colds don’t require prescription medication. Instead, focus on relieving symptoms and supporting your body’s healing process. If you begin to feel a cold coming on, don’t panic—but do act early. Support your immune system with rest, hydration, and gentle remedies.
Home Remedies and Supportive Care:
Herbal-Based Options
Herbal therapies have long been used to ease respiratory symptoms. Natural ingredients like ivy leaf, chamomile, licorice root, peppermint, eucalyptus, and honey have been studied for their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects.
Here are a few herbal remedies that may help relieve cold symptoms:
- Formulated with seven types of natural plant extracts and oils, along with natural honey, this remedy helps relieve sore throat and soothe irritation. Can be used up to four times a day, with compact packaging makes it convenient and easy to carry wherever you go.
- Eugica Ivy Syrup is formulated with a high-strength ivy leaf extract, requiring only two doses per day—less frequent than many other herbal over-the-counter cough syrups. It is known to help clear phlegm and relieve cough effectively. With a pleasant honey flavor that appeals to children, this family-friendly syrup is suitable for both adults and children as young as two years old. It is also diabetes-friendly, making it a safe option for a wide range of users.
- Formulated with eucalyptus extract and ginger, this plant-based remedy offers natural relief for cough and nasal congestion. It is ideal for adults seeking a fast-acting, compact, and easy-to-swallow softgel alternative to traditional liquid cough medications. It is also travel-friendly—making it a convenient, on-the-go solution for busy lifestyles.
While herbal remedies can help ease symptoms, always follow dosage instructions and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
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