March 10th, 2010 | 
Author: I have read that taking decongestants and expectorants can actually Extend an illness like a cold or the flu because they are stopping your body from doing what it does naturally to combat such things. Is this proven? If so, why do so many people take SO many drugs to combat little colds?
PS- I’ve had a cold since Sunday and have steered clear of symptom relievers, relying on water, tea, mentholated lozenges, and as much rest as I can get. It seems to be clearing up, I’m just left with a hoarse voice and minor stuffy nose.
Posted in Q&A | 
Tags: colds, decongestants, drugs, flu, hoarse voice, lozenges, stuffy nose, water tea
The only thing I’ve heard of regarding this matter is that taking something to relieve a fever is bad (unless it is a very young child or a life-threateningly high fever) because the temperature is actually helping you get rid of the bacteria/viruses.
For myself, I have come to believe strongly that tylenol (in the right dosage!!!) to relieve the headaches, fever, and muscle aches actually shortens colds. Dunno about decongestants, they make me crazy so I don’t take them. I thought that expectorants were supposed to help, but maybe not.