Amid the chilly winter weather, masses of people seem to be fighting a cold that rivals the symptoms of Covid-19.
It's natural to see a spike in colds and coughs at this time of year, but thousands of people in Scotland and the rest of the UK are experiencing what they are calling the "worst cold ever" as people mingle once again like they did in pre-pandemic years.
While flu and cold symptoms are intertwined with those of Covid, what's there to do if you're testing negative for the virus but feel quite ill?
The topic came up on social media after TV writer Darren Little posted on Twitter : "Anyone else down with something that feels like Covid but isn't?".
The viral tweet, which has racked up over 30,000 likes, has seen thousands of people stricken with the same ailment respond in agreement.
No doubt the poor weather has also contributed to a rise in ill health as last week parts of the country experienced snow, ice and temperatures as low as -17C.
While it can be tough to escape flus and colds in cold conditions, there are ways you can tackle them without having to take a trip to the doctor.
According to Abbas Kanani, pharmacist at Chemist Click online pharmacy, once a cold or flu has begun, you can't actually stop it from taking course. The best thing to do is let it run its course which could last up to 10 days.
Before seeking medical attention, there are a number of over the counter treatments which can be purchased at any pharmacy to fight incessant spluttering.
Abbas explains that there are two main types of coughs – a chesty cough or dry tickly cough.
Using medicines containing active ingredients such as guaifenesin, ipecacuanha, ammonium chloride and squill can help to break up any excess mucus that may have accumulated from a chesty cough.
An over-the-counter medicine containing a cough suppressant to block the natural coughing reflex, such as pholcodine and dextromethorphan, should help relieve the symptoms of a dry, tickly cough.
Over the counter pain relievers such as paracetamol, aspirin, or ibuprofen are the most popular and effective medications to treat fever and body aches. They also work to lower body temperature.
People find nasal and throat sprays offer relief for congestion and sore throats helping them to get better sleep which can aid a speedy recovery.
The medical expert has shared their top home made remedies to help you recover at home.
Household ingredients to treat cough and colds
Warm water and honey - The most common natural flu remedies include warm water with added lemon and honey which help ease symptoms such as dehydration, sore throat and congestion. This remedy also helps to boost the immune system thanks to the vitamin c, antioxidant, antibacterial, and antimicrobial benefits.
Salt - Salt water rinses can offer immediate relief for sore throats and coughs, a popular choice found in the kitchen cupboard.
Ginger - Used for medicinal purposes, the natural root can help the body to release toxins and can be an effective and inexpensive treatment for nausea and vomiting.
Soup - Chicken soup is beneficial, as chicken cooks it releases an amino acid resembling properties in medicine used to fight infections such as bronchitis.
Garlic, onions and leeks are usually included in chicken soup recipes, which have a range of phytochemicals delivering antibiotic, antifungal and health protective properties.
Minerals - Zinc is a popular treatment with some studies showing that it helps to fight infection and heal wounds.
Natural bacteria - Probiotics are commonly used to reduce gastrointestinal symptoms that are not due to acute illness, such as gas, bloating, and constipation, whilst supporting our immune systems.
Some studies have shown a link between eating more foods packed with probiotics and a reduction in the impact of flu symptoms.
Fruit - Anthocyanins, found in berries, have strong anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immune-boosting effects so for many years people have eaten fruits such as strawberries and blueberries to help relieve symptoms.
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