Cough, Cold and Flu FAQs
From multi-symptom tablets to targeted relief options for sore throats, nasal congestion, and various types of coughs, our Pharmacists can guide you to find the right solution for you and your family.
Whether you need daytime relief, nighttime comfort, or children's formulations, we're here to help you feel better sooner.
Is there a difference between the cold and the flu?
Yes, there is. While the cold and the flu (caused by the influenza virus) are both respiratory illnesses that can affect your nose, throat and lungs, the flu is typically more severe, whereas colds are milder than the flu.
The symptoms are also different.
Influenza (flu) symptoms can include fever, chills, cough, body aches, and fatigue. The flu can also last for one to two weeks.
Cold symptoms can include fever, coughing, runny nose and a sore throat. A cold lasts seven to 10 days, which is much shorter than the flu.
What are the different types of cold and flu medicine?
There are several forms of cold and flu medicine available to help manage different symptoms:
- Tablets and capsules: Tablets and capsules come in a range of different sizes and can contain a range of active ingredients for soothing cold and flu symptoms. Some capsules include ingredients that treat runny noses and coughing, whereas others contain decongestants, which can help blocked noses and nasal congestion.
- Lozenges: Throat lozenges are typically small medications that are meant to be dissolved or disintegrated slowly in the mouth and can soothe cold and flu symptoms, including coughs or sore throats.
- Throat sprays: Throat sprays typically contain topical anaesthetics that can numb your throat or protect it from further irritation from coughing.
- Nasal sprays: Nasal sprays are medication that’s directly delivered into your nasal passages and can help clear nasal congestion.
- Syrups and liquids: Cough syrup or liquid comes in a range of flavours and formulations to manage different types of cough, including dry cough, chesty cough, or lingering cough.
- Gargles: A gargle can help soothe your sore throat or reduce throat irritation or inflammation.
Your Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist can help you select the right type of cold and flu medicine based on your specific symptoms and health needs.
What should I take if I have a cold?
Colds are very common, and adults may get two to four colds a year. You only need to see your doctor if you have asthma, type 1 or type 2 diabetes or another long-term medical condition.
If you’re healthy, your immune system will fight off the infection, and symptoms will usually clear up in 7-10 days without any treatment.
Supporting your immune system while you’re sick may help you recover from cold and flu symptoms. Brands like Henry Blooms, Herbs of Gold and BioCeuticals offer immune support formulations.
It's recommended that you take medicine for cold and flu symptoms that may help ease discomfort, get plenty of rest, keep warm, and eat a healthy diet with fruit and vegetables.
Brands like Codral, Demazin, and Sudafed offer cold medicine that may help with symptoms such as nasal congestion and sore throat.
What should I take if I have the flu?
If you have the flu, it’s important to rest, drink plenty of water, and consider medicine for cold flu symptoms so you can rest.
Depending on your symptoms, products such as Difflam throat spray or Strepsils lozenges may help with throat discomfort, while Duro-tuss and Vicks offer options for different types of coughs.
Booking your flu vaccination can also provide protection against the flu. The flu vaccination updates yearly as influenza strains change over time, and the protection you’re given from the vaccine wears off after 3 to 4 months. You can book your flu vaccination here.
Can I take cold and flu tablets with cough syrup?
Some cough syrups
are safe to take with cold and flu tablets, but it’s essential to check with your Pharmacist to make sure you’re not double-dosing on the active ingredients included in both.
Your Pharmacist can advise you on what cold medicine options may be suitable for your symptoms, whether you need non-drowsy formulations, or if you're looking for children's cold and flu medicine.
Can I take cold medicine while pregnant?
If you're pregnant and experiencing cold or flu symptoms, you may be able to take some common medicines, including paracetamol and certain cough medicines, to relieve your symptoms.
If you’re unsure or want a second opinion, speak with your doctor or local Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any over-the-counter medicines during pregnancy.
Your Pharmacist can recommend pregnancy-appropriate cold and flu medicine options and advise on which ingredients are generally considered safer during pregnancy.
Always follow professional healthcare advice, as medication needs can vary based on your stage of pregnancy and individual health circumstances.
What cold and flu medicines are suitable for children?
When it comes to children's cold medicine, it's important to choose products specifically formulated for their age group. Many brands, including Demazin, Duro-tuss, and Fess, offer children's formulations with appropriate dosing instructions based on age and weight.
If your child is experiencing nasal congestion, saline nasal sprays may be suitable. Some cough syrups are formulated specifically for children, but you should always check the label for age recommendations.
If you’re unsure about what medicine may suit your child's needs, chat with your Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist before giving your child any medicine for colds and flu.
Our expert Pharmacists can advise you on age-appropriate products, correct dosing, and potential interactions with other medications your child may be taking.
Remember that fever-reducing medications for children come in different strengths, so always follow the dosage instructions carefully and use the measuring device provided with the medicine.
My HealthRewards
Become a member today & unlock reward vouchers, bonus points & exclusive offers. Join My HealthRewards and earn 1 point for every dollar you spend. Not a member? Join today.