What should I do if I have a cold and fever but no medicine?

Written by Li Tao
Pulmonology
Updated on February 14, 2025
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A cold refers to what we commonly call an acute upper respiratory tract infection. It is mostly caused by viruses and bacteria infecting the upper respiratory tract, resulting in symptoms like coughing up phlegm. For example, symptoms may include sore throat, hoarseness, runny nose, teary eyes, fever, and other symptoms. All of these are referred to as a cold. After a cold, a fever may occur. Generally, if the body temperature exceeds 38.5°C, fever reduction treatment is necessary. If there are no medications available and the body temperature is quite high, drinking warm water, alcohol rubs, or warm water bathing can be used to reduce the temperature. If the body temperature is below 38.5°C, we can try to lower it to normal by drinking water and monitoring the body temperature frequently.

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What to do when a cold causes a hot nose?

The common cold is an acute rhinitis caused by viral infection, with common symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion; there may also be symptoms of nasal fever. In cases where the cold is accompanied by a hot nose, one initial approach is to use medications to alleviate the symptoms, such as compound cold medicines or traditional Chinese medicines that clear heat and detoxify. Additionally, it is advisable to drink plenty of hot water, rest, avoid getting chilled, quit smoking, and ensure good ventilation in the room to aid recovery from the cold.

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How to treat a baby's cold in the early stages?

What are the symptoms at the onset of a cold? Generally, at the initial stage of a cold, we definitely experience symptoms such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, low-grade fever, and slight coughing. If it's just a runny nose and nasal congestion, in this case, we can take some antiviral medications, some proprietary Chinese medicines, and also provide some acetaminophen chlorpheniramine granules to relieve these symptoms of runny nose and nasal congestion. If there is a cough, appropriate cough suppressant medication can be taken orally. At the same time, pay attention to body temperature; if there is a fever, fever reduction measures should be taken. If it is a low-grade fever, physical cooling should be the main approach. If the body temperature exceeds 38.5 degrees Celsius, oral ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be administered. Also, pay attention to the child's mental response and other conditions.

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Is it normal to not catch a cold for a long time?

Not catching a cold for a long time is normal and indicates that the body is healthy with a normal immune function and robust defensive capabilities. In contrast, patients who frequently catch colds and fever generally have low immunity, showing signs of a weak constitution. Such individuals should drink more water and exercise more often. There is no need to worry or take any intervention measures if you do not catch a cold for a long period. Maintain a regular routine, adjust your mindset, avoid exposure to irritating chemicals, keep a positive attitude, avoid staying up late, and have regular health check-ups.

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How to deal with cold chills and fever?

Symptoms of a cold such as chills and fever are manifestations of chills and high fever. During this period, one should first measure the body temperature, drink plenty of water, and promptly take appropriate fever-reducing measures depending on the severity of the fever to prevent febrile convulsions. Generally, the body temperature is measured again two hours after fever reduction through physical cooling or medication. Once the body sweats, the body temperature will return to normal, and the symptoms of chills will gradually ease. If the body temperature exceeds 38.5 degrees Celsius, medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be taken. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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How many days does it take to recover from a cold caused by wind-cold?

Patients with a common cold due to wind-cold usually improve within about 3 to 7 days under normal conditions. The most severe period is the first 1 to 2 days, during which symptoms such as severe coughing and a runny nose are more pronounced. It is recommended to always pay attention to keeping warm and avoid getting chilled to prevent worsening the condition. If the cold is severe, it is crucial to go to a formal hospital in time and treat the symptoms based on the doctor's guidance. Additionally, one can use some anti-inflammatory and wind-cold fighting medicines for effective treatment, which can help improve the cold and hasten the healing process.