Zicam: Cold Relief in 3 Days

Cold season is now upon us. For many adults, avoiding common colds and the associated symptoms is a primary concern as the common cold can lead to not only unproductive personal lives but unproductivity at work. For many, the use of Zicam has come to the forefront of common cold healthcare. As an alternative medicine, and homeopathic approach to care, Zicam may be the newest cutting edge over-the-counter product in the fight against common colds.

Zicam, provides not only common cold relief, but also provides relief from flu, allergies and simple nasal discomfort symptoms. Because symptoms of the common cold generally involve nasal or sinus pressure pain, coughing and headache, Zicam may provide the much needed relief from these symptoms. In fact, Zicam claims to improve cold symptoms three times as fast as that of the other over the counter cold remedies medications.

Offered in a variety of dosing options, Zicam can be used by virtually any patient. Most interesting is Zicam's availability in a gel swab which is not commonly seen in other over the counter cold remedies. By inserting the gel swab, no more than 1/4" in to the nostril, Zicam releases the cold fighting medicaton into the blood stream and respiratory tract in the exact method in which the bacteria or virus entered the body in the first place. Immediate results include a sudden decongestion of the nasal passage, usually within a few minutes providing relief from the common cold. While some patients report pain or slight burning in the nasal area, this is to be expected and should dissipate within a few days.

As a non-drowsy and non-habit forming over the counter common cold remedy, Zicam can also be used in children. Working to not only reduce symptoms, Zicam is believed to reduce the duration of the common cold in sufferers of all ages. Active ingredients in Zicam include oxymetazoline hydrochloride which is a nasal decongestant. With this ingredient, alone, the impact of Zicam is noticeable thorugh its ability to immediately improve the ability to breath. In any patient of any age, the use of Zicam is not indicated for more than three days. Should symptoms not improve over three days, consultation with a healthcare professional may be indicated.

As with any cold or flu remedy, individuals suffering from high blood pressure, thyroid disorders or diabetes should consult a physician before using Zicam in the treatment of nasal decongestion.