Do Cold And Flu Medicines Help With Covid

do cold and flu medicines help with covid, a question on many minds as respiratory seasons converge. Understanding the nuances between these common ailments and the role of readily available remedies is crucial for navigating symptoms effectively.

This exploration dives deep into the shared territory of cold, flu, and COVID-19 symptoms, dissecting how their similarities can blur the lines of self-diagnosis. We’ll uncover the science behind over-the-counter (OTC) medications, from decongestants to pain relievers, and assess their potential to alleviate specific COVID-19 symptoms. Crucially, we’ll also highlight the limitations and risks associated with using these medicines for a novel virus, and when it’s imperative to seek professional medical advice.

Understanding the Overlap

The advent of COVID-19 has significantly complicated the landscape of respiratory illnesses, particularly due to the considerable overlap in symptoms with the common cold and influenza. This symptomatic similarity can lead to substantial confusion for individuals attempting to self-diagnose, potentially delaying appropriate care or leading to unnecessary anxiety. Differentiating these conditions based solely on initial symptoms is challenging, necessitating a nuanced understanding of their presentations and typical trajectories.The commonalities in symptoms arise because all three are respiratory infections caused by viruses that affect the upper and/or lower respiratory tract.

They share fundamental mechanisms of triggering the body’s immune response, which manifests as a range of common symptoms.

Symptom Commonalities Across Respiratory Illnesses

The shared symptoms between the common cold, influenza, and COVID-19 highlight the diagnostic challenge. These overlapping signs are the primary reason why distinguishing between them without medical testing is difficult.

• Fever: While common in flu and COVID-19, a fever can also occur with a cold, though it is typically less severe and less frequent.
• Cough: A dry or productive cough is a hallmark of all three. The nature of the cough (e.g., persistent, hacking, or producing phlegm) can vary but is not a definitive differentiator.
• Sore Throat: A scratchy or painful throat is frequently reported across all three infections.
• Runny or Stuffy Nose: This symptom is very common with colds but can also be present in influenza and COVID-19.
• Fatigue/Malaise: A general feeling of tiredness, weakness, and discomfort is a prominent symptom, especially with influenza and COVID-19, often more pronounced than with a cold.
• Headache: Headaches are common with flu and COVID-19 and can also occur with a severe cold.
• Muscle or Body Aches: These are particularly characteristic of influenza and can be significant, but are also reported in COVID-19 and occasionally with severe colds.

Diagnostic Challenges in Self-Diagnosis

The overlapping symptom profiles present a significant hurdle for self-diagnosis. Without specific diagnostic tests, individuals are left to interpret subjective experiences, which can be influenced by individual immune responses, prior exposures to viruses, and even psychological factors. This ambiguity can lead to:

• Delayed Medical Consultation: Individuals might attribute serious symptoms of COVID-19 to a common cold, thus delaying seeking medical advice and potentially worsening their condition or spreading the virus.
• Inappropriate Self-Treatment: Relying on remedies for a cold might be ineffective for influenza or COVID-19, leading to prolonged illness.
• Increased Anxiety: The uncertainty of the illness can cause significant stress and worry.
• Misinformation Spread: Difficulty in distinguishing symptoms can fuel the spread of incorrect information about the nature and severity of these diseases.

Potential Differentiating Visual Cues (Textual Description)

While definitive diagnosis requires testing, certain patterns in symptom presentation might offer subtle clues, though these are not absolute indicators.

• Onset Speed: Influenza often has a more sudden onset, with symptoms appearing abruptly over a few hours. Colds tend to develop more gradually over a day or two. COVID-19 can present with either a gradual or sudden onset.
• Severity of Aches: Influenza is often associated with more severe and widespread muscle aches and body pains compared to colds. COVID-19 can also present with significant body aches, sometimes to a degree comparable to or exceeding influenza.
• Loss of Taste or Smell: A sudden and complete loss of taste or smell (anosmia or ageusia) became a highly distinctive symptom of COVID-19, particularly during earlier waves of the pandemic. While not present in all COVID-19 cases and rare in colds or flu, its presence is a strong indicator for COVID-19.
• Respiratory Distress: While severe cough can occur in all, significant shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, especially without a prior history of lung conditions, is a more concerning symptom and more frequently associated with moderate to severe COVID-19 or influenza.

Typical Symptom Progression

The way symptoms evolve over time can offer additional, albeit still not definitive, clues.

Common Cold Progression

A typical cold begins with a sore throat, followed by nasal symptoms (runny or stuffy nose) within a day or two. A cough may develop later. Symptoms usually peak around day 3-5 and gradually improve, with most symptoms resolving within 7-10 days, though a lingering cough can persist longer. Fever is uncommon or mild.

Influenza Progression

Influenza often starts with a rapid onset of fever, chills, severe muscle aches, headache, and fatigue. A dry cough and sore throat are also common. Symptoms are generally most severe in the first 3-4 days, with fever typically lasting 2-5 days. Recovery can take 1-2 weeks, with fatigue potentially lingering for longer.

While the efficacy of common cold and flu remedies against COVID-19 remains questionable, it’s crucial to consider potential interactions with existing medications. For instance, individuals managing high blood pressure must exercise caution, as understanding can you take dramamine with high blood pressure medicine is paramount before self-treating any symptoms, including those that might overlap with COVID-19. Always consult a healthcare professional for accurate guidance on managing symptoms and medication safety.

COVID-19 Progression

COVID-19 presents with a highly variable progression. Symptoms can appear 2-14 days after exposure. Common initial symptoms include fever, cough, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell. For many, symptoms improve within a week or two. However, a significant subset of individuals can experience a worsening of symptoms around day 5-10, particularly respiratory symptoms like shortness of breath, which may necessitate hospitalization.

Long-term symptoms (Long COVID) can persist for weeks or months in some individuals.

The overlap in symptoms between the common cold, influenza, and COVID-19 underscores the critical importance of diagnostic testing for accurate identification and appropriate management of respiratory illnesses.

Mechanisms of Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications: Do Cold And Flu Medicines Help With Covid

Over-the-counter medications are frequently employed to manage the symptoms associated with common colds and influenza. While these conditions are distinct from COVID-19, their overlapping symptom profiles necessitate an understanding of how these readily available remedies function. This section details the pharmacological actions of key OTC drug classes commonly used for cold and flu symptom relief.The efficacy of OTC medications lies in their targeted mechanisms of action, addressing specific physiological responses to viral infections or allergic reactions.

By understanding these mechanisms, individuals can make more informed choices about symptom management.

Decongestant Mechanisms

Nasal congestion, a hallmark symptom of colds and flu, arises from the swelling of blood vessels in the nasal passages, leading to inflammation and increased mucus production. Decongestants work to counteract this by constricting these blood vessels.Decongestants primarily act as alpha-adrenergic agonists. They bind to alpha-adrenergic receptors on the smooth muscle of blood vessels in the nasal mucosa. This binding triggers a signaling cascade that leads to the contraction of these smooth muscles, thereby narrowing the blood vessels.

The reduction in blood flow to the nasal tissues diminishes swelling and inflammation, opening up the airways and facilitating easier breathing. Common examples include pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine.

Antihistamine Function in Allergy-Like Symptoms

Allergic reactions share several symptoms with the common cold, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Antihistamines are crucial in managing these specific symptoms by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical mediator released by the body during allergic responses.Histamine binds to histamine receptors (H1 receptors) on various cells, including those in the nasal lining and blood vessels, causing vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and stimulation of mucus glands.

Antihistamines act as competitive antagonists at these H1 receptors, preventing histamine from binding and exerting its effects. This inhibition reduces symptoms like sneezing, itching, and rhinorrhea. First-generation antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine) can cause drowsiness, while second-generation antihistamines (e.g., loratadine, cetirizine) are designed to be less sedating.

Analgesic and Antipyretic Actions

Pain and fever are common systemic symptoms of viral infections like influenza. Analgesics provide pain relief, while antipyretics reduce fever. Many OTC medications combine these properties.These medications primarily target the production of prostaglandins, a group of lipid compounds that play a significant role in mediating pain, inflammation, and fever.

• Mechanism of Action: Analgesics and antipyretics, such as acetaminophen (paracetamol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen, inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. COX enzymes are responsible for converting arachidonic acid into prostaglandins.
• Pain Relief: By reducing prostaglandin synthesis, these drugs decrease the sensitization of peripheral nerve endings to painful stimuli and also act centrally in the brain to elevate the pain threshold.
• Fever Reduction: In the context of fever, prostaglandins, particularly PGE2, are thought to reset the body’s thermoregulatory set-point in the hypothalamus. Inhibiting prostaglandin production allows the hypothalamus to return to its normal temperature set-point, leading to a reduction in body temperature through increased heat loss mechanisms like sweating and vasodilation of skin blood vessels.

The inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by COX enzymes is the central mechanism by which analgesics and antipyretics alleviate pain and reduce fever.

Cough Suppressant and Expectorant Roles

Coughing is a protective reflex designed to clear the airways of irritants and mucus. However, persistent or unproductive coughs can be distressing. OTC medications address different types of coughs through distinct mechanisms.Cough suppressants, also known as antitussives, are designed to reduce the urge to cough, particularly for dry, hacking coughs that interfere with sleep or daily activities. Expectorants, on the other hand, aim to thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to expel from the respiratory tract, thereby aiding productive coughs.

• Cough Suppressants (Antitussives): These agents typically work by acting on the cough center in the brainstem or by desensitizing sensory receptors in the airways. Dextromethorphan is a common example of an antitussive that acts centrally by depressing the cough reflex. It binds to sigma-1 receptors and NMDA receptors, modulating the activity of the cough center.
• Expectorants: Guaifenesin is a widely used expectorant. Its precise mechanism is not fully understood but is believed to involve increasing the volume and reducing the viscosity of respiratory secretions. This is thought to occur through stimulation of mucus glands or by altering the rheological properties of mucus, making it less tenacious and easier to clear via coughing.

Potential Benefits of Cold and Flu Medicines for COVID-19 Symptoms

While not a cure for COVID-19, certain over-the-counter (OTC) cold and flu medications can offer significant symptomatic relief for individuals experiencing mild to moderate illness. These medications target common symptoms associated with viral respiratory infections, including fever, aches, and congestion, which are also frequently reported in COVID-19 cases. Understanding which active ingredients address specific symptoms can empower individuals to manage their discomfort more effectively.The efficacy of OTC medications in alleviating COVID-19 symptoms is primarily linked to their pharmacological actions on physiological responses to the virus.

These drugs do not target the SARS-CoV-2 virus directly but rather mitigate the body’s inflammatory and physiological reactions, thereby improving the patient’s overall comfort and potentially aiding in rest and recovery. It is crucial to note that these medications are for symptomatic management and do not alter the course of the viral infection itself.

OTC Medication Ingredients for Specific COVID-19 Symptom Relief

Many common OTC cold and flu medications contain active ingredients that can address the diverse array of symptoms associated with COVID-19. These ingredients work through various mechanisms to reduce discomfort and improve well-being.The following table Artikels common OTC ingredients and their corresponding symptomatic relief for COVID-19:

Active Ingredient Class	Specific Ingredients	COVID-19 Symptoms Addressed	Mechanism of Action
Analgesics/Antipyretics	Acetaminophen (Paracetamol), Ibuprofen, Naproxen	Fever, Body Aches, Headaches, Sore Throat	Reduce fever by acting on the hypothalamus; inhibit prostaglandin synthesis to reduce pain and inflammation.
Decongestants	Pseudoephedrine, Phenylephrine	Nasal Congestion, Sinus Pressure	Constrict blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing swelling and improving airflow.
Antitussives	Dextromethorphan	Cough	Suppress the cough reflex by acting on the cough center in the brainstem.
Expectorants	Guaifenesin	Chest Congestion, Mucus Buildup	Thin and loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up.
Antihistamines	Diphenhydramine, Chlorpheniramine	Runny Nose, Sneezing, Watery Eyes (often associated with post-viral symptoms or co-infections)	Block the action of histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions and inflammation.

Effectiveness of Different Classes of OTC Medications for COVID-19 Fever

Fever is a hallmark symptom of COVID-19, often indicating the body’s immune response to the viral infection. Several classes of OTC medications are effective in reducing fever, with analgesics and antipyretics being the primary agents.The primary classes of OTC medications effective for fever associated with COVID-19 include:

• Acetaminophen (Paracetamol): This is a widely recommended antipyretic and analgesic. It works by affecting the heat-regulating center of the brain (hypothalamus) to reduce fever and by blocking pain signals. It is generally well-tolerated and is a first-line option for fever management in COVID-19.
• Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): This class includes ibuprofen and naproxen. NSAIDs reduce fever by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever. They also offer anti-inflammatory benefits, which can be helpful for other COVID-19 related aches and pains. However, caution is advised for individuals with certain pre-existing conditions, and consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended.

Both acetaminophen and NSAIDs can effectively lower body temperature and alleviate the discomfort associated with fever. The choice between them may depend on individual patient factors, potential drug interactions, and contraindications. For instance, individuals with gastrointestinal issues might prefer acetaminophen over NSAIDs.

Potential Role of Decongestants in Alleviating COVID-19 Breathing Difficulties

In mild cases of COVID-19, individuals may experience nasal congestion and sinus pressure, which can contribute to a feeling of difficulty breathing or an obstructed airway. Decongestants, available in oral or nasal spray forms, can offer relief by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages.Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, work by constricting the blood vessels in the nasal mucosa. This vasoconstriction leads to a reduction in swelling and mucus production, thereby opening up the nasal passages and easing the sensation of congestion.

For mild COVID-19 cases where breathing difficulties are primarily due to nasal obstruction, decongestants can improve airflow and provide a sense of easier respiration. It is important to note that these medications do not address any underlying lung inflammation or more severe respiratory compromise that may occur in moderate to severe COVID-19.

Pain Relievers for Managing COVID-19 Body Aches and Headaches

Body aches (myalgia) and headaches are common and often debilitating symptoms reported by individuals with COVID-19. OTC pain relievers play a crucial role in managing these symptoms, improving patient comfort, and facilitating rest.Pain relievers, primarily analgesics and NSAIDs, target the mechanisms responsible for pain perception and inflammation.

• Acetaminophen: Effective in reducing mild to moderate pain, including headaches and body aches, by acting on the central nervous system to block pain signals.
• NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen): In addition to pain relief, NSAIDs also possess anti-inflammatory properties. This dual action can be particularly beneficial for managing the inflammatory component of muscle aches and joint pain associated with viral infections like COVID-19.

The use of these pain relievers can significantly reduce the discomfort caused by myalgia and headaches, allowing patients to rest more effectively, which is vital for recovery.

Limitations and Risks of Using Cold and Flu Medicines for COVID-19

While over-the-counter (OTC) cold and flu medications can offer symptomatic relief for some common ailments, their application to COVID-19 requires careful consideration due to significant limitations and potential risks. These medications are designed to address symptoms, not the underlying viral infection, and their use in the context of COVID-19 may mask crucial indicators of disease progression or lead to adverse effects.

Understanding these constraints is paramount for safe and effective symptom management.The primary limitation of OTC cold and flu medications in treating COVID-19 lies in their inability to target the SARS-CoV-2 virus itself. These remedies focus on alleviating symptoms such as fever, cough, congestion, and aches, which are the body’s response to the infection. They do not possess antiviral properties that can reduce viral load or shorten the duration of the illness.

Consequently, relying solely on these medications may provide a false sense of security, delaying appropriate medical consultation and potentially allowing the infection to worsen without intervention.

Potential Adverse Reactions and Contraindications in COVID-19 Patients

Individuals with COVID-19 may be more susceptible to adverse reactions from certain OTC cold and flu ingredients. For instance, decongestants, commonly found in cold remedies, can elevate blood pressure and heart rate. In a patient with COVID-19, particularly those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or experiencing COVID-19-related cardiac complications, these effects can be detrimental. Similarly, some antihistamines can cause drowsiness and impaired cognitive function, which could be problematic for individuals needing to remain alert or those experiencing COVID-19-related fatigue.

The sedative effects might also mask signs of worsening respiratory distress.

Interactions with Other Medications and Pre-existing Health Conditions

The complexity of managing COVID-19 symptoms is further compounded by potential drug interactions. Many individuals with underlying health conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, or respiratory diseases, are at higher risk of severe COVID-19. OTC cold and flu medications can interact negatively with prescription medications used to manage these conditions. For example, decongestants can interfere with the efficacy of blood pressure medications.

Acetaminophen, a common pain reliever and fever reducer, requires careful dosage monitoring, as overuse can lead to liver damage, a risk that is amplified if combined with other medications or in individuals with compromised liver function. Furthermore, certain ingredients may exacerbate pre-existing conditions. For example, a dry cough suppressant might be inappropriate for a COVID-19 patient experiencing a productive cough, potentially hindering the clearance of mucus from the lungs.

Common OTC Cold and Flu Ingredients and Their Impact on COVID-19 Symptom Management

The following table Artikels common classes of OTC cold and flu ingredients, their potential symptomatic relief for COVID-19 symptoms, and crucial considerations or limitations associated with their use.

Ingredient Class	Potential Symptomatic Relief for COVID-19	Key Considerations/Limitations
Decongestants (e.g., Pseudoephedrine, Phenylephrine)	May temporarily alleviate nasal congestion and sinus pressure, making breathing easier.	Can cause increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, insomnia, and nervousness. Contraindicated in individuals with certain cardiovascular conditions, uncontrolled hypertension, or thyroid disorders. Does not address the viral cause of congestion.
Antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine, Loratadine, Cetirizine)	May provide relief for sneezing, runny nose, and itchy throat, particularly if allergy-like symptoms are present.	First-generation antihistamines (like diphenhydramine) cause significant drowsiness, which can impair daily functioning and mask symptoms of respiratory distress. Second-generation antihistamines are less sedating but may still cause mild drowsiness. Less effective for core COVID-19 symptoms like fever or cough.
Pain Relievers/Fever Reducers (e.g., Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, Naproxen)	Effective in reducing fever, alleviating headaches, muscle aches, and general body discomfort associated with COVID-19.	Acetaminophen: Strict adherence to dosage limits is crucial to prevent liver toxicity. Ibuprofen/Naproxen: Can cause gastrointestinal upset, ulcers, and kidney problems, especially with prolonged use or in individuals with pre-existing kidney or gastrointestinal issues. Potential for interactions with blood thinners.
Cough Suppressants (Antitussives) (e.g., Dextromethorphan)	May help to reduce the frequency and intensity of a dry, non-productive cough, aiding in rest.	Should not be used for productive coughs where mucus needs to be expelled, as it can lead to mucus accumulation and potential complications. May mask worsening respiratory symptoms or a developing pneumonia.
Expectorants (e.g., Guaifenesin)	Aims to thin mucus, making it easier to cough up, which can be helpful for chest congestion with a productive cough.	Effectiveness is debated and often requires adequate hydration to be beneficial. Does not suppress the cough reflex and may lead to increased coughing, which could be fatiguing for some COVID-19 patients.

When to Seek Professional Medical Advice

While over-the-counter (OTC) cold and flu medications can offer symptomatic relief for certain COVID-19 symptoms, it is crucial to recognize the limitations of self-treatment and understand when professional medical intervention is necessary. COVID-19 is a complex illness, and its progression can vary significantly between individuals. Prompt medical evaluation is essential to ensure appropriate diagnosis, management, and to prevent potential complications.

Recognizing Warning Signs for Immediate Medical Consultation

Identifying specific warning signs and symptoms that indicate a more severe or complicated course of COVID-19 is paramount. These indicators suggest that the illness may be progressing beyond what can be safely managed with home care and OTC remedies, necessitating urgent consultation with a healthcare provider. Early recognition of these signs can lead to timely medical intervention, potentially improving outcomes and reducing the risk of severe illness or hospitalization.

Importance of Pre-Treatment Consultation for Vulnerable Populations, Do cold and flu medicines help with covid

Before initiating self-treatment for suspected COVID-19 symptoms with OTC medications, consultation with a healthcare provider is particularly important for vulnerable populations. This includes individuals who are elderly, have underlying chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, or are immunocompromised. These groups are at a higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 and may experience atypical symptom presentations. A healthcare professional can assess individual risk factors, provide personalized guidance on safe and effective symptom management, and advise on when to seek further care, thereby minimizing potential risks associated with inappropriate self-medication.

Transitioning from Self-Care to Professional Medical Intervention

The decision to transition from self-care utilizing OTC medications to seeking professional medical intervention for COVID-19 symptoms should be guided by the evolution of symptoms and the presence of specific red flags. While initial mild symptoms might be manageable with rest, hydration, and OTC remedies, a worsening of these symptoms, the emergence of new concerning signs, or a lack of improvement over a reasonable period warrants a medical evaluation.

This transition ensures that a healthcare provider can accurately assess the severity of the illness, rule out complications, and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

Critical Indicators for Urgent Medical Attention in Respiratory Illness

A set of critical indicators exist that signal the need for urgent medical attention when experiencing symptoms suggestive of a respiratory illness, including COVID-19. These are not exhaustive but represent severe manifestations that require immediate evaluation by a healthcare professional. Prompt recognition and response to these signs can be life-saving.

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest.
• New confusion or inability to wake or stay awake.
• Bluish lips or face.
• High fever that does not respond to medication.

The presence of any of these symptoms should prompt an immediate call to emergency services or a visit to an urgent care facility or emergency department. For instance, a sudden onset of severe shortness of breath, often described as feeling unable to catch one’s breath or gasping for air, is a critical sign that the body is not receiving adequate oxygen, requiring immediate medical intervention.

Similarly, persistent chest pain or pressure, especially when accompanied by shortness of breath, could indicate serious cardiac or pulmonary involvement. New confusion or a significant change in mental status, such as extreme drowsiness or disorientation, can be a sign of severe oxygen deprivation affecting the brain. Bluish discoloration of the lips or face (cyanosis) is a visible indicator of dangerously low oxygen levels in the blood.

A high fever that persists despite the use of antipyretic medications also suggests a significant infection that requires professional assessment.

End of Discussion

Navigating the landscape of respiratory illnesses requires a clear understanding of symptom overlap and the precise role of OTC medications. While cold and flu remedies can offer temporary relief for certain COVID-19 symptoms like fever, aches, and congestion, they do not address the virus itself. It’s vital to recognize their limitations and potential risks, especially for vulnerable individuals. Prioritizing professional medical advice when warning signs appear ensures appropriate care and prevents potential complications, guiding you from self-care to necessary intervention.

FAQ Explained

Can I take cold medicine if I have COVID-19?

You can use certain over-the-counter cold and flu medicines to manage specific symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, body aches, and congestion. However, these medications treat symptoms, not the virus itself, and it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and interactions.

Do cold and flu medicines cure COVID-19?

No, cold and flu medicines do not cure COVID-19. They are designed to provide symptomatic relief for common cold and flu symptoms, which may overlap with some COVID-19 symptoms. They do not eliminate the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Are there any specific ingredients in cold medicine that are particularly helpful for COVID-19 symptoms?

Pain relievers and fever reducers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can be effective for managing fever, headaches, and body aches associated with COVID-19. Decongestants might offer temporary relief for nasal congestion. However, their effectiveness is limited to symptom management.

What are the biggest risks of using cold and flu medicine for COVID-19?

Risks include masking worsening symptoms, potential interactions with other medications, and adverse reactions, especially in individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Overuse of certain ingredients, like acetaminophen, can lead to liver issues.

When should I stop taking cold medicine and see a doctor for COVID-19?

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, new confusion, inability to stay awake, bluish lips or face, or a high fever that doesn’t respond to medication. Consulting a doctor is also advisable if your symptoms worsen or don’t improve.