Treating colds, seasonal flu, and H1N1 symptoms early can reduce severity say pharmacists

November 11, 3:25 AMNatural Health ExaminerGenevieve Kiger

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H1N1 Swine Flu Symptoms, as well as Seasonal Flu and Colds
Often Less Severe if Treated Early According to Pharmacists

A recent survey of pharmacists across the US released on November 10th indicates that some 90 percent believe it important to treat symptoms at the first signs of a cold or flu – even H1N1 swine flu symptoms – in order to help reduce the duration and severity of symptoms.

What can be Taken to Reduce Cold and Flu Symptoms?

There are a number of medications, both prescription and over the counter (OTC) designed to help reduce severity of viral symptoms like flu and cold symptoms.

In addition to pharmaceutical options, there are quite a number of antiviral herbs and essential oils, as well as other natural ways to boost immune system health.

Other Findings of the Survey

• 87 percent of pharmacists questioned expect a far greater number of cold and flu patients seeking their advice this cold and flu season
• 85 percent said the economic downturn specifically will cause people to seek out their pharmacists instead of their primary physicians
• 85 percent felt the economic downturn increased interest in OTC products
• 81 percent report making five or more OTC recommendations every day

Additionally, Dr. Fred Eckel, Professor of Pharmacy Practice and Experiential Education at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Eshelman School of Pharmacy is quoted in the press release as saying, "Early preparedness is going to be more important this cold and flu season; however, even with the threat of stronger, more virulent infections, pharmacists note that patients oftentimes delay treatment allowing a virus to live longer. Pharmacists are the most accessible health care provider for patients with cold and flu symptoms and the survey findings emphasize the important role of the pharmacist in educating patients…"

Recommended Articles:

• Top 5 simple ways to help prevent H1N1 Swine Flu symptoms - easy things you can do to prevent or reduce severity of symptoms
• H1N1 Swine Flu, regular flu, & the common cold: symptom differences - a comparative look at the symptoms of cold and flu season viruses
• Tamiflu liquid for children limited - alternate dose options offered by FDA - guidelines for pharmacists and parents to deal with the shortage of Tamiflu liquid for children
• Have H1N1 Swine Flu Symptoms? Beware false internet treatment promises - just because something claims to treat H1N1 swine flu symptoms doesn't mean it's true
• E.R.s being flooded by H1N1 Swine Flu fears - when should medical care be sought? - just because you have H1N1 swine flu symptoms doesn't mean it's time to panic; learn when seeing a health professional is needed – and when it isn't.

For a touch of humor, be sure to check out these great t-shits and other products about the Swine Flu Panic.

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