Immune System Questions and Answers - Experts advice and answers for all your immune system questions

How long does bronchitis last and will it go away on its own?

The duration of the inflammation caused by bronchitis really depends on the type of bronchitis that you are suffering from. In terms of acute... Read the full answer 〉

Is it normal to develop cold sores on or in my nose?

Can a cold sore appear on or in the nose? When the cold sore virus is activated, it typically moves along the nerves to the surface of the lips,... Read the full answer 〉

I hurt all over, and I'm really tired. Is this flu?

I am sorry to hear that you have been unwell. I see that you have posted your question from one of our flu pages. Yes, flu can give rise to a variety... Read the full answer 〉

I feel like I have the flu, but my right knee is very swollen and sore. Is that part of the flu virus or something separate? I'm concerned it's Lyme disease.

I am sorry to hear that you have been feeling unwell. Flu can give you aching muscles and joints. However, it is unusual to give rise to a swollen... Read the full answer 〉

What foods can I eat to soothe a sore throat?

A good home remedy to soothe your throat is to add a bit of honey to orange juice and stirring this mixture into a little hot water. Fruit is full of... Read the full answer 〉

What causes an itchy throat?

There can be a number of reasons for an itchy throat. The most likely are:1. Infection – these are most commonly viral and give rise to the... Read the full answer 〉

How many days should a blocked or stuffy nose last?

The length of time a blocked nose will trouble you will depend on what is causing the problem. In general:1. A blocked nose due to a cold or flu... Read the full answer 〉

Does the flu affect a breast-feeding woman more severely? I have fatigue after the flu.

Yes, this is possible and there are two reasons why it might be so:• Pregnancy suppresses your immune system. If your child has been born... Read the full answer 〉

Which type of antibiotics can help with flu?

Flu is caused by a group of viruses known as the Influenza viruses. Antibiotics act on bacteria and will not have any effect on viruses. Treatments... Read the full answer 〉

Why do I get a sharp pain in my head after I have a coughing fit? It only lasts a few seconds and doesn't seem to be as bad if I'm lying down.

The most likely reason is that you might have a sinus infection. This can arise as a complication of the viral infections we know as the common cold... Read the full answer 〉

I have had a chronic dry cough for over 2 months and antibiotics have done nothing. What should I do next?

I am sorry to hear that you have been unwell. I assume that the antibiotics have been prescribed by your doctor. As the cough has been persistent,... Read the full answer 〉

Can a blocked nose make your nose bleed?

Yes, it is possible for a blocked nose to be associated with nose bleeds. There are a number of reasons why you might have a blocked nose. One common... Read the full answer 〉

Why do I cough after laughing?

When you have a good laugh, small droplets of saliva can enter your upper respiratory system. The body does not like this happening as any... Read the full answer 〉

My daughter has seasonally cough from September to March. How it can removed?

I am sorry to hear that your daughter has been unwell. There are a number of reasons why she might be coughing during these months, which I assume... Read the full answer 〉

Why do I not get many colds?

On average, an adult will experience 2 or 3 colds or flu each year. There are a few factors which might be contributing to your fortunate... Read the full answer 〉

I am using Echinaforce^® for colds and flu. My question is this: as the product is natural and organic, how well does it hold its effectiveness until the expiry date even when the bottle has been opened.

Yes - the active ingredients in Echinaforce® are stable to its use-by date even if a bottle has been opened. The product is a licensed medicine and... Read the full answer 〉

I have a pain in my back around the upper left shoulder due to frequent coughing. I have taken antibiotics for 1 week but it doesn’t help. Is my back pain the result of a serious health problem?

There are two likely causes for the pain in your back: 1. Frequent coughing can lead to muscle strain and this may not settle... Read the full answer 〉

Can you have a flu jab if you have a head cold?

The question you ask is a good one. Opinions vary. The guidance in the UK is that it is fine to have the flu jab if you have any sort of cold,... Read the full answer 〉

I’m 64 and want to find out which foods and supplements are best for supporting my immune system?

The immune system can become a bit tired as we become older and of course, as in any age group, it becomes less efficient when we are under stress or... Read the full answer 〉

Can you catch cold sores from glasses in pubs, if they have not been washed properly?

The question you ask is an interesting one. The short answer is no. The root of a cold sore does not lie with what you are in contact with this... Read the full answer 〉

Why do my face, jaw and teeth ache?

A viral infection giving rise to the common cold or head colds can give you pains in your muscles, bones and joints. The primary reason for this... Read the full answer 〉

How can you prevent cold sores and is there an injection to prevent them?

There has been talk of a vaccine against cold sores over the years, but at the moment, I am not aware that such a treatment is generally available in... Read the full answer 〉

Can an asthma pump cause a sore throat?

Yes, the inhalers used by people with asthma can cause a sore throat. There are two reasons for this: 1. You could be sensitive to the... Read the full answer 〉

I have a running nose all day, with random coughing at night. I constantly wake up bunged up blowing my nose. What can I do?

The first thing that comes to mind when reading the description of your symptoms is that you may have a condition known as allergic rhinitis. This is... Read the full answer 〉

I am in week 11 of having a cough that gets worse at night. Its more a tickly throat but then at night the cough is so bad I struggle to breathe and gasp for air. I've been to doctors who gave me an inhaler and anti-hystimenes. This hasn't helped. A phlegm test came back clear. My chest xray was clear. I took cough medicines which have still not helped. I really can't cope with any more sleepless nights. What else could I try?

I am sorry to hear that you have been unwell. The first thing which comes to my mind is that you may have a form of mild asthma. I do not know what... Read the full answer 〉

I had my flu jab earlier in the year and now I've got flu. Why?

This is not an uncommon experience. The key reason is that the flu jab only protects you from a few types of flu viruses and it is likely that you... Read the full answer 〉

When is it safe to kiss after a cold sore?

In most circumstances, a cold sore will no longer be infectious at the crusting or healing stage. However, occasionally, this part of the cold sore... Read the full answer 〉

How often should I use nasal sprays?

The number of times a day you can use a nasal spray is usually defined on the product packaging - look for the dosage instructions. Some people do... Read the full answer 〉

Can stress and nerves cause a chronic cough?

The short answer is Yes, stress and anxiety can lead to a chronic dry cough. You may have heard of a ‘nervous cough’ and in a way, coughs caused... Read the full answer 〉

My nose is blocked and I get pain in my lungs, quite often, especially in the cold season. How can I prevent it?

I am sorry to hear that you have been unwell. One remedy we would recommend is Echinacea. It has both antiviral and antibacterial properties and will... Read the full answer 〉

Can smoking cause a tickly cough?

The short answer is yes. Smoking can give both mucus coughs and tickly coughs. Mucus coughs might also be called smoker’s coughs and this happens... Read the full answer 〉

When will my wet cough disappear?

I am sorry to hear that you have been unwell. Unfortunately, I cannot give you a definitive answer as there are many factors at play here. Typically,... Read the full answer 〉

Why does my cough get worse at night?

Read the full answer 〉

How long does a head cold last?

A head cold will normally last between 5 and 7 days without any treatment. Research has shown that Echinacea can shorten the length of your cold so... Read the full answer 〉

I have a bunged up nose and a banging headache. Is it head cold?

I am sorry to hear that you have been unwell. Yes, this can be termed a head cold. It is likely that your headache is the result of partial blockage... Read the full answer 〉

My daughter got the flu and I have had it over the last 3 days, and my other daughter might have it too. Can we re-infect each other? I feel really run down as I have had to look after kids while very sick. What will help?

I am sorry to hear that you have been unwell. Yes, viral infections can cause a round of re-infection in friends, colleagues or family. The key... Read the full answer 〉

I have a sore throat that has lasted roughly 3 weeks. I feel achy all the time and tired. I am 50 years old and a non-smoker. What can I do?

I am sorry to hear that you have been unwell. Considering the symptoms you describe, the most likely diagnosis is that you have a viral... Read the full answer 〉

Why do I get a head cold about 4 days after eating cream?

This is an interesting question – although I am not sure if I can give you a definitive scientific answer. However, one possibility is that in some... Read the full answer 〉

Can head colds cause dizziness?

Yes, a head cold can lead to dizziness. The reason is that the infection and inflammation leads to an increase in the amount of mucus produced by the... Read the full answer 〉

How do I stop myself from coughing

What we would do firstly, is to try to work out the cause of your cough. In the winter and for someone who is relatively fit and well, the most... Read the full answer 〉

How do you build a stronger immune system?

This is a very good question and one that has exercised the minds of many people over the years. The first thing to look at would probably be diet.... Read the full answer 〉

What causes indigestion, bloating and a dry cough?

There is indeed one condition that could link both these symptoms and this is acid reflux. If you suffer from indigestion or an excess of acid... Read the full answer 〉

I have all the symptoms of a head cold without nasal congestion. Can this still be considered a head cold?

The short answer is yes. A head cold is not a very clearly defined condition medically. The term has been coined because some cold symptoms do not... Read the full answer 〉

Can having a head cold affect your eyes?

Yes, a head cold can affect your eyes. Viruses tend to go for the most vulnerable parts of the body – for the common cold virus which is... Read the full answer 〉

How long should I stay in bed with cold, chesty cough and flu like symptoms?

I am sorry to hear that you have been unwell. In general, with the common cold or flu, one or two days in bed should help to get you on the road to... Read the full answer 〉

I had the flu five weeks ago and still have achy joints and muscles. Is this typical of the viruses this winter?

Yes, severe colds and flu can give rise to a multitude of symptoms, including aching muscles and joints. As you say, certain viruses are more prone... Read the full answer 〉

Is it unusual to have a head cold for three months?

Yes, this is very unusual. What I think could be happening is that you started with a head cold affecting your sinuses and / or ears. This would have... Read the full answer 〉

I have been feeling really unwell with flu symptoms for over a week now and still not showing any signs of recovery. What would you suggest?

I am sorry to hear that you have been feeling unwell with flu symptoms for the past week. Most people with similar infections will be starting to... Read the full answer 〉

I have polycystic kidney disease which limits what I can take. I have a dry/chesty cough that makes me retch every time I cough. What remedy can I take?

I am sorry to hear that you have been unwell with the cough.There seems to be a virus doing the rounds these past few weeks giving a persistent cough... Read the full answer 〉

I am 32 years old and female. I have had problems with night-time coughing for more than ten years now. What kind of health check would you recommend for this?

I am sorry to hear that you have had problems with coughing at night. Two causes should be eliminated in the first instance. Your cough could be due... Read the full answer 〉

Is it normal to lose your voice after 6 days of being sick with a cold?

Yes, loss of voice can one of the symptoms experienced with the common cold. Basically, what happens is that the inflammation that is in the upper... Read the full answer 〉

Why is it that it takes me about a week to get over the flu and it takes my eldest son about 2 to three days to get well? Are our immune systems different from one person to the next?

People do respond differently to viral infections. As you say, the state of your immune function is key and in general, young adults will get over an... Read the full answer 〉

I had a bad sore throat two days ago in the middle of the night. I went to the doctor the next morning, who told me to drink honey and lemon and the symptoms should relieve in a couple of days. She also gave me a prescription but told me not to use it unless I did not feel better after two days. I have used honey and lemon as well as chicken and ginger soup to help myself for 1 day. But last night I started to have high a fever, headache and blocked nose. This morning I feel very dizzy and my eyes and neck muscles ache. I wonder if Echinaforce can help me?

I’m sorry to hear that you have been unwell. Yes, Echinaforce will help you recover faster and will be suitable at this stage of the illness. I... Read the full answer 〉

How does the mucus form when you have a head cold?

Mucus is produced naturally by the body and has the function of keeping the delicate membranes in our head and nasal passages moist and protected.... Read the full answer 〉

My head has been sore and my nose blocked up for over three days now. What should I do?

The most likely cause of your symptoms is blockage in your sinuses.Inflammation in the upper nasal passages can cause a blockage to the drainage... Read the full answer 〉

When I feel my immune system is low I always have itching at my arms, legs and sometimes all over my body. Can you explain why it is like this?

The body’s inflammatory response is controlled by the immune system by a variety of very complex pathways. If this system is not functioning well,... Read the full answer 〉

I have a persistent, dry cough that comes and goes. What can I do?

I am sorry to hear of your problem. There are a number of common causes of a dry cough: 1. Viral infections such as those... Read the full answer 〉

My nose has been blocked from 2 years straight and I get this heavy sneezing every morning right after I wake up. But when I freshen up or take a bath the sneezing part goes away for the day. However, one side of the nose still remains blocked. What could be the problem?

There are two main causes for a blocked nose:1. The most common is inflammation in the tissues of your nasal passages. This can be triggered by a... Read the full answer 〉

Can I use Echinacea for HSV-1?

Yes, there is evidence that Echinacea can have a direct action on HSV-1, the cause of cold sores. However, we find that Propolis is probably a better... Read the full answer 〉

I have had a cough for 7 days which is not abating. What can I do?

There are two types of coughs – a mucus or productive cough, or a dry cough.A productive cough gets its name because of the cough brings up mucus.... Read the full answer 〉

Why is a tickly cough always worse when you go to bed? Also is Solpadeine any good for suppressing the cough? It is driving me mad. I got this after getting the flu injection on 2/10/14.

There are a number of reasons why a tickly cough can be worse in bed. Perhaps the most common reason is that your cough is caused by something called... Read the full answer 〉

How long does a cough last?

The length of time a cough lasts depends on the reason for your cough. 1. If you have a viral infection such as a cold or the flu, the... Read the full answer 〉

How long do colds last?

Most colds will not last longer than 10 days. Of course, some people recover sooner than others, and this depends on two factors – the virus which... Read the full answer 〉

I have had a dry cough for two weeks. Should I be worried?

I’m sorry to hear that you have been unwell. Most dry coughs do not indicate the presence of a serious health condition. However, if you are a... Read the full answer 〉

Is sinusitis causing my headache?

Sinusitis can cause headaches but there could be other reasons for your headache. For more information on causes, symptoms and treatments, please... Read the full answer 〉

What are the symptoms of sinusitis?

The symptoms of sinusitis can vary greatly from person to person, but some of the most common are: a tight feeling behind the eyes, forehead or... Read the full answer 〉

How can I clear my blocked nose? Are there foods that I should eat/not eat?

I am sorry to hear that you have been suffering a blocked nose. There are two main reasons why this is so: 1. You could have a physical... Read the full answer 〉

I have been having a lot of mucus problems lately and feel quite run down. Blocked inner ear in January - still bit blocked now and ears click. Then flu developed two days ago. Can't get comfortable to sleep, can hear my pulse in my head, blocked sinuses, aching eyes..... have been taking echinacea in between ear and flu illness but guess I just need something else???? Did have antibiotics for a week in jan to reduce inflammation of ear. Any ideas?

A head cold is more likely to affect the sinuses and this could explain the symptom of ‘pain in the head’ that you describe. If this does not... Read the full answer 〉

My daughter suffers from glandular fever; she currently has a sore throat and blocked nose, which could be associated with stress, as she had a job interview today. My question is... if this is (in this case) stress related, is there a quick fix/remedy?

I’m sorry to hear that your daughter has been unwell. Yes, stress can depress the function of the immune system leading to a variety of infections... Read the full answer 〉

I have chronic bronchitis. What can I do to relieve the cough?

Chronic bronchitis will normally give you a chesty or mucus cough.This is because damaged lung tissue tends to produce excessive amounts of mucus and... Read the full answer 〉

Can you catch a cold from a pet cat?

This is a very interesting question. Current scientific thinking is NO.The viruses causing cat flu and similar respiratory infections are quite... Read the full answer 〉

Can sinus cold make back teeth hurt?

This is an interesting question and the answer is yes. The reason for this is that as sinuses become blocked, pressure builds up within the cavity... Read the full answer 〉

What can I do to unblock my nose?

The answer to your question depends on the cause of your blocked nose.1. If you have a structural problem such as polyps or something called a... Read the full answer 〉

What causes loss of smell?

There are a number of causes of loss of smell. It is very commonly seen when one has an infection or inflammation of the upper airways, excessive... Read the full answer 〉

I smoked for the last 10 years, before quitting in June 2014. During this time I had a cough intermittently. However, since August 2014 the cough has been constant. What should I do?

Firstly, congratulations for quitting smoking. Paradoxically, it is not uncommon for a cough to worsen after giving up cigarettes, but this should... Read the full answer 〉

My cough which is persistent has lasted for over 3 months and is now hurting my inner chest. What have I got and what remedy is available please?

Any persistent cough can strain the muscles in your chest wall and this could be one reason for the pain you describe on your ‘inner chest’.... Read the full answer 〉

My son, who is 4, has a regular cough problem. He seems to have one every month. Which medicine would be effective for him?

If your son is getting a cough every month it is important that he gets this checked out by his doctor. In the meantime you may find Ivy Thyme,... Read the full answer 〉

I have a chesty cough. What is the best relieving medicine?

Bronchoforce is traditionally used for a chesty cough however, if your cough has been going on for more that a few weeks or is getting worse it is... Read the full answer 〉

I have a head cold and a dry hacking cough for about a week and a half now. I am taking Levocetirizine and Prometh/cod 6.25-10 with no relief, what else can I do?

Echinaforce® is traditionally used for the relief of colds and flu and Bronchosan is traditionally used for dry/tickly coughs. You can use these... Read the full answer 〉

Can someone give another person a cold sore when they have never had one before?

Yes, this is theoretically possible, although rare. When the cold sore virus enters a person’s body for the first time, no typical cold sore will... Read the full answer 〉

I've had a tickly cough for a few months. It seems to be worse at certain times particularly in the evening. I also sometimes cough up small lumps of mucus. What could be causing this?

I am sorry to hear that you are troubled with a tickly cough.With the limited information you have provided, I can only give you general information... Read the full answer 〉

Persistent coughing at night. What could be causing it?

There are a number of possibilities to consider. These might include: 1. An infection of your upper respiratory tract infection. These... Read the full answer 〉

Is Echinacea suitable for a child of 11, who after having a cold develops a chronic dry cough that lasts for several weeks?

In principle, the answer is yes. However, we should first check that the child has not developed a form of (temporary) asthma which may be manifested... Read the full answer 〉

I get a tickly cough a few times a week at least a couple of times a day. This started a few months ago. I don’t have any pain with the cough, it’s just irritating and dry. I take sips of water and that seems to help.

There could be a number of causes for your dry, irritating cough. · We would initially consider the possibility... Read the full answer 〉

Should I be serving food if I have the cold/flu?

If you have a cold or flu, it will be better if you did not serve food. The reason is that you are likely to transfer viruses from your hands onto... Read the full answer 〉

My seven-year-old grandson is staying with us and has got a persistent cough, which I am now getting worried about. I have given him some cough medicine, which does not seem to be helping in any way. Could you please give me some advice, as I am concerned?

I am sorry to hear that your grandson has not been well. There could be two main reasons for his persistent... Read the full answer 〉

Can you catch flu from not washing your hands after going to the toilet?

In general, the answer is no. The bacteria and viruses in the digestive tract and faeces will not give you the cold or flu. However, if you are using... Read the full answer 〉

I have had flu like symptoms, shoulder and neck pain, and a sore throat and headache for 6 days now. I went to see the doctor at the start with the shoulder pain and they said it was muscular. I still have other symptoms. He gave me Co-codomol. Have you any suggestions?

Your symptoms do suggest that you have a viral infection and this can give rise to muscle aches or pains. Co-codamol can help with the pain but will... Read the full answer 〉

I had a sore throat, for a week, and then started coughing uncontrollable for a few days. The last 3 weeks I have had a tickling, warm feeling, which makes me cough.

It sounds very much like your symptoms have been caused by a viral infection of your upper respiratory tract and that this is still persisting. If... Read the full answer 〉

I have had an irritating dry cough since Christmas. What can I do?

I am sorry to hear that you have not been well. The first thing I need to check with you is that you have been to see your doctor about this problem.... Read the full answer 〉

Can back pain be due to dry cough?

Yes, back pain can be related to repeated bouts of coughing (resulting from both dry and chesty coughs). The most likely reason is that you have... Read the full answer 〉

Can you get body aches from a head cold?

A head cold, if severe, can give rise to muscle aches and pains. Other symptoms can include headaches or a feeling of pressure in the face because... Read the full answer 〉

What is the best solution for allergic reactions for the coming spring season? Shitake plus Reishi? Echinacea? Zinc? What do you think?

Yes, all of these (and more, eg. pcygnogenol and nettle) have been used in the past for allergies. The actives you mention all have properties in... Read the full answer 〉

I have recently been diagnosed with lupus and wondered if you have any information on how this affects my immune system?

As you will know, Lupus is a condition classified as an autoimmune disorder. These arise because the body’s immune system starts to see normal body... Read the full answer 〉

My Mum has been suffering from a cough problem for the last 2 months. She coughs very frequently, whilst talking, eating, cooking ... We have consulted a ENT specialist, who told us that she has lot of mucus in her throat. He gave her some pills and syrup to try, but there has been no improvement. We consulted another MD, who told us that her body is very weak, low in red blood cells, and gave us some multivitamin tablets. However, we had to stop taking these tablets too. My queryies are: 1. Could it be due to a dust allergy 2. Who should we consult. Should we go back to the ENT specialist or someone else? 3. What solution can you suggest? Anything you can suggest would be much appreciated. She is suffering a lot because of the cough.

I am sorry to hear that your mother has been unwell. As you can appreciate any advice I can give is limited by the information you have provided to... Read the full answer 〉

My 14-month-old granddaughter has had a nasty cough. She is teething but the muck coming down her nose has gone from clear to green. Do you think she needs an antibiotic to clear it? She is also a little wheezy. Her mum is asthmatic.

I am sorry to hear that your granddaughter has been unwell. As her mother is asthmatic, she has a greater chance of having the same problem, at least... Read the full answer 〉

When I was young my father used to swab my throat with a sort of iodine mixture. What is Vogel’s mixture for this procedure?

From the description you have given seems to me that your father was applying iodine tincture to your tonsils – a collection of lymph glands at the... Read the full answer 〉

My daughter has a very bad sore throat. She's 6 years old, what can I give her to help heal it?

Unfortunately, we do not have any products for sore throats for children under 12. I would suggest asking at your local health shop as they may be... Read the full answer 〉

Do you get a constant headache with a cold or flu?

You can get a constant headache with colds and flu but these usually go as you get better. Headaches of this nature are often caused by blocked... Read the full answer 〉

I have a sore throat that is irritating and is making me cough. I have taken some antibiotics but it is still not resolving. What can I do?

You may find a combination of Echinaforce Sore Throat Spray and Bronchoforce helpful as these are traditionally used for sore throats and coughs. Read the full answer 〉

I have a bad tickly cough as part of flu symptoms. My doctor has prescribed a 5-day course on Amoxicillin, but this has not addressed the tickly cough, which seems worse at night.

You could try Bronchosan Cough Syrup as this is traditionally used for tickly coughs and you could also add in the Echinaforce® Sore Throat Spray as... Read the full answer 〉

I've had a head cold for 10 days now that is mostly in my ears. They have been ringing (tinnitus) for the entire time. I can’t sleep; the doctor put me on steroids and prednisone. It has been 2 days but it is not getting better. What can I do?

You could try Plantago, this is traditionally used to help with blocked ears from infections, colds etc. This can be taken with your other... Read the full answer 〉

I haven't got a cold, but have had a blocked nose for two weeks. How can I clear this up?

Blocked noses can be due to several factors such as allergy, catarrh, after antibiotic use or eating a lot of dairy based foods. You don't just... Read the full answer 〉

I have had a continual cough with mucus since the end of October. This is not getting any better although I am now taking my third strong antibiotic. How can I help myself?

There are several things you can do that may help with your cough.Bronchoforce is traditionally used for chesty coughs and I would also suggest a... Read the full answer 〉

My grandson coughs at night but is otherwise healthy and energetic. What could this be?

There could be a number of causes for this including the kind of washing powder used on the bedding, the kind of material in the pillows and duvet... Read the full answer 〉

At night I have a problem with mucus at the bottom of my throat which is causing me to cough. This has been ongoing for some time. My doctor has given me medication but with no affect. What would you suggest?

You could try Bronchoforce as this is traditionally used for a mucus cough and I would also suggest cutting right down on dairy products such as milk... Read the full answer 〉

Are head colds the same as colds?

Head colds are colds but with the symptoms focusing more around the head and face such as headaches, blocked nose/sinus, head pressure etc. Read the full answer 〉

I have been suffering with ENT congestion for some time now and I'm taking Plantago. I wondered if I could take Echinacea and Vitamin C together or should I take at different times?

It is fine to take Echinacea and Vitamin C with Plantago. If you are taking the Echinacea drops you can mix this with the Plantago and take together.... Read the full answer 〉

It started with a cold sore, then a hacking cough and now a sore throat. Do I need an antibiotic?

Antibiotics will only help if a bacterial infection is the cause and you would only be able to tell if your doctor tested you. Most coughs and colds... Read the full answer 〉

I have a persistent, dry, irritating cough. I have been in a dusty atmosphere. I wondered if it could be viral or something has irritated my throat and glands to cough persistently.

You have identified the two most likely possibilities causing your symptoms. Firstly, dry coughs are typically viral coughs and may persist for some... Read the full answer 〉

Every morning when I wake up I have a dry cough for 1 hour. Then it’s gone. Why is this?

Coughs can, of course, be caused by cold or flu infections but if this is not the case with you, the next most likely reason is that you have an... Read the full answer 〉

My 4 month old suffered with bronchiolitis at 9 weeks and very recently had croup. Would hanging washing in the house encourage either of these? My mother-in-law thinks the damp might be causing these respiratory problems.

I am afraid that I won’t be able to give you a definitive answer to your question, mainly because the scientific facts are not clear. What we do... Read the full answer 〉

I have had 6 cold sores in the past 4 months. I have tried lots of creams but nothing seems to help ease the cold sores.

I’m sorry to hear of your problem. Researchers have recently found that some people may be genetically more prone to cold sores because they do... Read the full answer 〉

Is salt water good for sore throats?

Yes, gargling with salt water can be helpful if you have a sore throat and is an easy remedy to put together when you have nothing else to hand. Salt... Read the full answer 〉

How do diseases like H1N1 get their name? What do the numbers and letters stand for?

‘Diseases’ which we know as H1N1 or H5N1 are actually the names of influenza viruses. Some of these have become notorious because they are able... Read the full answer 〉

I have had the flu, a cough and a chest infection. These where treated with Amoxil then changed to Cyprflaxin, then steroids and inhaler almost two weeks ago. I am still very tired. At the beginning of the symptoms my right thumb became swollen, I could not bend it and it was very painful. This is now a little better but today my left thumb has gone the same way. HELP

You seem to have had a particularly bad bout of viral infection.Sometimes, viruses causing colds and flu can trigger an inflammatory response in the... Read the full answer 〉

How does the immune system fight off disease?

This is a very good, simple question which unfortunately, has many answers.One of the main responsibilities of the immune system is to help the body... Read the full answer 〉

I have had a chesty cough for one week. My chest feels tied and I am having trouble breathing. I am also coughing up mucus. What can I do for it?

The symptoms of chest tightness and breathlessness should be investigated further as these are also signs of asthma – so you should really make an... Read the full answer 〉

I have had a tickly cough for two weeks now, at night mostly. What should I do or take?

Sorry to hear of your troublesome cough. A.Vogel has a remedy called Bronchosan which may be of help to you.It is made with extracts of fresh Spruce... Read the full answer 〉

I tend to get sore throats at least twice a year now, and it takes at least 3 weeks or more to get over it. What can I do?

Some people find that any cold or flu type of infection can affect a particular area of the respiratory system, giving rise mainly to specific... Read the full answer 〉

I don't have a cold, or cough, or sore throat. Can you explain why, suddenly during the night, I coughed very badly, constantly for over an hour?

Coughing at night can arise out of a number of causes. Many of these are minor health conditions, including a slight allergy to house dust or... Read the full answer 〉

Does drinking hot beverages help you with cold sores?

I’m afraid that there is no clear or agreed answer to your question. Our opinion is that hot drinks will not be helpful to cold... Read the full answer 〉

I had a normal cold for about a week then it got better.. About two weeks later I had another cold that lasted for about a week. Shortly after I got this horrible cold (head cold) with a high temp and pain in between the bridge of my nose (slightly in the centre above my eyes), a runny nose and feeling really really tired as if I had no muscles to move.. I'm really worried now as I've never experienced such a consecetive seasonal cold/flu before... Altogether I've been in such a terrible state for about 4 weeks on and off.. I have been to the doctor but they've just told me to take pain killers and increase vitamin C... I don't know whether I should be worried or be patient.. As I said I've never experienced anything like this before. I am 23 years old and I feel like 53. My body can't seem to fight off these viruses or at least maintain strength.. Can you help me?

The symptoms you describe are consistent with recurrent and repeated colds, but it is good that you have been to your doctor to eliminate a more... Read the full answer 〉

How can I get rid of stubborn mucus deep down in my chest. I got this after having a sore throat, which I treated with Echinacea drops and by inhaling menthol crystals.

If you are finding mucus difficult to ‘move’, then you probably require a mucolytic – these are agents which help to thin the mucus, making it... Read the full answer 〉

I have had cough for 3 weeks and am still coughing. l have asthma. What can I do?

As your cough has persisted for such a long time and because you also suffer from asthma, the best advice I can give you at this stage is to make an... Read the full answer 〉

Is it normal to have a swollen neck and jaw glands with the cold? Mine are sore and swollen and my throat is sore and red.

This can happen especially if the infection is more severe than normal.It is an indication that your immune system is responding to the infection in... Read the full answer 〉

I have two cold sores, one in each corner of my mouth. They scab over but every time I eat they split open which is very sore. This is the first time I have had these. What is the best thing to get rid of them please? I have had them just over a week now.

If your cold sores are still active, the natural remedy we would recommend is Bio-Propolis cold sore ointment which can be used at every stage of the... Read the full answer 〉

My partner says cold sores are herpes and if you have them then you’re sleeping around and you're disgusting. Is he right?

Well, this is only partially true. The virus that causes cold sores is indeed called the herpes virus. But, it is not the same herpes virus that... Read the full answer 〉

Can a blocked nose cause the face to swell?

Yes, a blocked nose can be accompanied by feelings of swelling in the face. This is because the factors leading to a blocked or stuffed up nose can... Read the full answer 〉

What is the treatment for a dry and tickly cough?

The treatment we have in our range for a dry or tickly cough is known as Bronchosan - a cough syrup made from freshly harvested Pine or Spruce shoots... Read the full answer 〉

I have had a really awful cold for 3 weeks, and a have a warm like sweating feeling over my back once or twice a day. What can I do?

It sounds like your body is still troubled by an infection. This could either be the original viral infection you caught 3 weeks ago or what is known... Read the full answer 〉

is it common to get tender swollen jaw nodes with sinus and head cold?

This is not uncommon. The nodes you describe are lymph nodes and part of the body’s immune system. As the body fights off infection, lymph nodes... Read the full answer 〉

How long is flu contagious? I have had flu that has left me with a chesty cough. I look after my 91 year old father and do not want to infect him. I have stayed away for a week, is this long enough?

You are very wise to have stayed away from your 91 year old father as people of his age tend to have a weaker immune system. In addition, symptoms of... Read the full answer 〉

I have had a constant blocked nose for the last 8 weeks. I have been treated by my doctor with Amoxicillin, Doxycycline and Avamys nasal spray, but to no avail. I have tried steaming with menthol crystals, but it keeps me awake at night as I can't breath. Any suggestions?

Your problem does sound rather uncomfortable and resilient to treatment. I would suggest that you take Plantago internally – it helps to break up... Read the full answer 〉

What can I take for a really really bad tickly cough? I can't stop coughing.

The first thing you should do is to rule out specific reasons or causes for your cough. For instance, if your cough is more commonly encountered at... Read the full answer 〉

What is Flu?

Flu, or influenza, is a specific infection of the upper respiratory tract caused by a group of viruses known as the influenza virus. The other common... Read the full answer 〉

I am 36 years old. I have had a dry cough for 2 months (with sore throat).

The most likely reason for your symptoms is a mild but persistent infection in your upper respiratory tract.However, as the problem has persisted for... Read the full answer 〉

Why does my chest burn when I cough and nothing comes up?

I presume that you have just had a cold or flu. There can be two main reasons for this. Firstly, it could be that the lining of the tubes in your... Read the full answer 〉

I've had a tickly cough for a couple of days and am unable to sleep at night. I am coughing up very small amounts of phlegm only, have a very slightly runny nose and started a few days ago with a slight sore/dry throat. I had something similar a few months ago. Not being able to sleep at night even though I am propped up on pillows. It is most frustrating.

The symptoms you describe are surprisingly common. The inflammation in your nasal passages is causing an increase in natural secretions and this is... Read the full answer 〉

I have had a cough for a while, sometimes it is a wheeze and I feel breathless, may be stress - have been under pressure for a while.

Symptoms of wheezing and breathlessness suggest that you could have asthma and it would be best for you to have this confirmed or eliminated. Asthma... Read the full answer 〉

I have the flu. Why do I have a headache?

Firstly, because your body is full of inflammatory chemicals and this makes more or less everything hurt. Secondly, because catarrh filling the... Read the full answer 〉

I have the cold and my question is why don't I feel hungry?

All your energy is needed for fighting the bug and any unnecessary diversions are discouraged. Heavy digesting work isn’t helpful at this time, so... Read the full answer 〉

I have been off work with the Flu for a couple of days now. Why am I so tired when I haven’t even been to work or done any exercise?

It may not look as if you are busy, but inside you the immune cells are extremely busy. Any infection will make you feel tired, as your body... Read the full answer 〉

Why am I coughing so much?

There can be two reasons: 1. The original virus that you have been fighting off may have moved further down your respiratory tract,... Read the full answer 〉

Why do I feel worse again now when I felt better yesterday?

Healing is a gradual process and the fact that one symptom has improved doesn’t mean you are necessarily in the home straight yet. Patience! Also,... Read the full answer 〉

Why do I feel worse in the evening? I seem to feel better during the day and more able to cope, even though I have the cold and all the symptoms that go with it.

This is partly because you have had a day of exhausting bug-bashing. You can’t see it happening, but your body is extremely busy defending you... Read the full answer 〉

Why do I feel so hot?

Any infection of the body can give rise to a fever. The immune system raises your body temperature to help make the environment less friendly to... Read the full answer 〉

Barking cough for over two weeks, sore stomach and generally feel unwell. Been given antibiotics by doctor - not working. Feel I am going to choke sometimes.

If you feel the antibiotics are not working, you would be best to let your doctor know. Your description of a barking cough tends to indicate that... Read the full answer 〉

I have had a cold sore come up 4 times in the last 6 months. When it comes up all my glands become swollen and painful, especially in my neck, but I also get a blotchy rash on my lower jaw on the side of the cold sore. How can I try and stop this? It has only started to happen this year. Is there anything to help it stay dormant as it makes me very run down?

Keeping your immune system strong will help prevent episodes of cold sores recurring. In addition, there are certain trigger factors relating to cold... Read the full answer 〉

How can I get rid of my chesty cough?

This depends on the cause of your chesty cough of which there are many. I assume that you are generally healthy and do not suffer from one of the... Read the full answer 〉

I appear to have a tickly/dry cough. I have just gargled cooled, boiled, salt water, but my chest is starting to hurt now when I cough. Any advice please?

Alternatively, the pain you are describing could be coming from the lung tissue itself because inflammation and infection may have spread down your... Read the full answer 〉

I have a cold sore on my nose, and inside of the nostrils. Had this before? How do I get them and why?

Cold sores most often appear around the mouth but occasionally can occur either on the nose or inside the nostril as you have described. Cold sores... Read the full answer 〉

I have acid reflux and have started taking omeprazole for one month. I have a sore throat from the months that I have tried to manage the condition. I am usuing echinacea, manuka honey and slippery elm. What do you suggest for my throat and maybe help digestive system.

I wonder if your sore throat is the result of acid reflux rather than any infection. This will explain why your choice of echinacea and manuka honey... Read the full answer 〉

I have had a cold for over a week with sore throat, runny nose etc. This has now led to an outbreak of cold sores on my mouth, nose and my eye is now itchy as if it could be spreading there too. Also I have swollen glands in my neck can you advise what to take please?

It does seem that your immune system needs some help. Having a cold can itself weaken your body’s defences further and this is why outbreaks of... Read the full answer 〉

What remedy would you recommend for blocked nose and sinuses following a nasty cold?

You could try Sinuforce Nasal Spray as this tends to work quickly. For long term relief Plantago is recommended, you can use both together if you... Read the full answer 〉

I have sufferd from cold sores all my life but the last fews months I have had 2 or 3 in a short space of time. I have had major foot surgery and have been layed up for 12 weeks but now I am on the mend. I have been very stressed and I don't sleep well. I was looking for some advice on cold sores as one side of my mouth seems to be sore and red since my last cold sore which was 4 weeks ago and now I have another small one in the same place.

Stress can play a big part in the recurrence of cold sores; you may wish to look at Bio-propolis, we would, however, also suggest that constant cold... Read the full answer 〉

I have a cold sore, my upper lip is swollen.

You could try Bio-propolis, this is a natural remedy used for treating cold sores at any stage of the cycle. Read the full answer 〉

I have a bad cold a really sore throat and nausea. Strong headaches as well.

Your symptoms do sound like that of a bad cold. Headaches might also indicate blocked sinuses and if you nose is also blocked you might benefit from... Read the full answer 〉

I had the flu and am now extremely weak, have lost a lot of weight, have constant heart palpitations, I am hot and cold and dont want to even eat and when I do I am still weak. Its being going on too long.

If you still have symptoms after a week or so it is best to get in touch with your doctor or contact NHS 24. They can advise if you need to take any... Read the full answer 〉

I run a very stressful life and have now had flu like symptoms for 4 weeks. Is this common?

Stress can weaken the immune system and make recovery take longer. You can take Echinaforce®, which is traditionally used for the treatment of colds... Read the full answer 〉

I have been having a lot of mucus problems lately and feel quite run down. Blocked inner ear in January - still bit blocked now and ears click. Then flu developed two days ago. Can't get comfortable to sleep, can hear my pulse in my head, blocked sinuses, aching eyes..... have been taking echinacea in between ear and flu illness but guess I just need something else???? Did have antibiotics for a week in jan to reduce inflammation of ear. Any ideas?

As you still have an infection you can keep on with the Echinacea until you feel better. Plantago is traditionally used for ear problems so may be... Read the full answer 〉

How long are you infectious with a cold approximately please?

This does tend to vary, but in general, up to 2 or 3 days after symptoms appear. Read the full answer 〉

I've had a dry tickly cough for the last 5 days and just started taking warm water with honey. I just wondered how long I should persist before I should think about seeing the doctor (don't want to waste their time). The cough is a lot worse at night and has kept me awake the last two nights.

If you'd had a cold then it should go in a week or so. You might wish to visit our pages on coughs for more information including symptoms to look... Read the full answer 〉

Is it normal to have a chesty cough and cold for more than 4 weeks?

It's best to have this checked out as you have had the symptoms for quite some time. Read the full answer 〉

I am 54 and have had flu for 3 days. I am managing it with water and paracetomal. My son is 24 and has had flu for 6 days and it has'nt got any better. He has low enegy and can't sleep or eat. What can u suggest?

You could both try Echinaforce this is licensed for the relief of colds and flu. If symptoms persist for more than 10 days after starting... Read the full answer 〉

I think I have the flu, but why does the inside of my nose feel like its burning?

This is all to do with the infection causing inflammation and irritating the mucus lining of the nose.Check with your doctor if your symptoms... Read the full answer 〉

I have had a cold for over a month, I can't seem to shift it. I drink green tea, eat healthy and exercise 5 time a week.

You could look at using Echinaforce® which is great for colds and flu. However, if symptoms still persist after using Echinacea for more than 2... Read the full answer 〉

I have been using Echinaforce for the last few years and can say 'I am a fan'. Colds and coughs and sore throats have been kept abay since using it. I recently recommended it to my daughter, who is also now using it. I had read that you could use it as a preventative (a reduced dose) and therefore used it all the time. In the most recent leaflet I read, it stated that it should not be used for more than 8 weeks. Question should I have a break every so often or can I safely use it as a preventative?

In general, Echinacea can be used as a preventative. If you take one dose a day, there is no need to take a break. Our product is licensed for the... Read the full answer 〉

What are the symptoms of the flu?

Flu symptoms can include temperature, headaches, joint/muscle aches, total debilitation (you just can't get out of bed!) sneezing, runny nose,... Read the full answer 〉

I took Plantago for a few days when I had the flu, but my chest is still really bad. I'm going back to GP today to get it checked. I'm not sure if Plantago is helping, I'd like to think so, but stopped a few days ago as not sure what to do. Is it useful for chest infections etc?

Plantago is traditionally used as an ear, nose and throat herb and is normally recommended for sinus, earache, sore throats, mucus, inflammation of... Read the full answer 〉

I have been looking at cough medicines and nasal sprays. Currently I am in bed with my second flu like illness in four months. I have a constant drippy nose, headaches, sore glands and a spasmodic cough, which is far worse when lying down at night. This is a worry to me as I have a prolapse and so I need to treat the cough. I am a Reflexologist so obviously all work is cancelled for a sceond time. Feeling really low and considering trying some herbal preparations to help myself. What is your advice please?

You could try Echinaforce® as this is traditionally used for colds and flu and can be taken until you are completely better. You could also try... Read the full answer 〉

My partner and I have been suffering with a virus for almost a month. Symptoms are waves of fever accompanied by severe exhaustion on doing any task for more than ten minutes or so, mild coughing and in my case nasal discharge, green in colour. Can we take any supplements to support our recovery?

Echinacea can be used to help recovery from colds, flu etc, and this can be taken until you are better. You could also try Biostrath.Use Bronchoforce... Read the full answer 〉

For the past 48 hours I have had very sore ears and throat and a running temperature. Is there any over the counter medications I could buy?

It sounds like a cold or flu infection, so try Echinaforce® Sore Throat Spray, stay warm, rest and drink plenty of liquids and fruit juice. Read the full answer 〉

I have just had 5 days flu, lifeless, headaches and cough. I am still left with persistent cough and headaches that pain killers are not helping. As I also take the lowest dose of Perindopril I am not sure what to do now to get rid of headaches and coughing. Can you help please as I am normally a very healthy and physically active person and never normally have headaches at all.

The headaches and coughing may be caused by blocked sinuses. You may find it helpful to use Sinuforce Nasal Spray. Bronchoforce may also help to... Read the full answer 〉

Can Echinacea tablets be taken at the same time as prescribed medication for flu?

Yes, Echinacea can be used together with conventional cold and flu medicines that are readily available in high street pharmacies and supermarkets.... Read the full answer 〉

I was just wondering how I might have caught a cold sore as I don't normally suffer from them?

Many people have the virus and never have a cold sore however sometimes, stress, strong sunshine or other infection can trigger one. Read the full answer 〉

I have what I think is a cold sore in the corner of my mouth for the first time. Can you tell me what causes it. I have read that there are different types of cold sores.

Herpex Simplex is the virus that causes cold sores around the mouth. they can be passed from person to person, you can have had the virus for a long... Read the full answer 〉

My son now 20, has pretty much had a constant blocked nose for the last two years. The doctor has been treating it as chronic sinusitis but the nasal sprays haven't got rid of it. It is worse when he is stressed but even when well in himself one nostril is blocked - no headaches or other cold/flu symptoms. Can you suggest anything else he could try?

He may find that avoiding certain foods such as dairy products and caffeine could help, especially when he is stressed. He may also find Sinuforce... Read the full answer 〉

What would you recommend for flu symptoms?

You could look at Echinaforce® as this is traditionally used for flu. Read the full answer 〉

I have had flu like symptoms since Monday, it started with diarrhoea and sickness on the Monday and a sore throat which quickly went to a full on cold body shakes fever and generally just feeling terrible. I was in bed till Wednesday, felt so weak, I'm still not feeling great, my chest is now very tight, constant headache with my sinus pain, is this just normal flu?

It does sound like the flu but if you are still feeling really unwell it is best to seek medical advice. NHS 24 should be able to give a diagnosis.... Read the full answer 〉

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