Don’t feel the burn
Heartburn is a common complaint with easy remedies. Bridgeman recommends Tums or Rolaids: They contain calcium and can help alleviate that burning sensation. However, if you need faster relief she suggests a liquid like Mylanta or Equate, which contain the gas-relieving ingredient simethicone; your body can absorb liquids faster than a tablet.
Spring fever
If you have allergies, intranasal steroids like Flonase or Nasacort are Bridgeman’s go-to meds. “They’re shown to have fewer adverse side effects compared with an oral antihistamine or other products for allergies; selecting the best allergy-relief medication is, of course, based on the patient and the symptoms; consulting with a doctor or pharmacist can help guide in the decision-making process,” she says. Learn the reasons your pharmacist knows more about your health than your doctor.
Stifle that cough
The type of cough you have will determine how you should treat it, says Bridgeman. “Cough medicines containing guaifenesin can be used to help bring up mucous and loosen phlegm,” explains Bridgeman. “Medicines containing dextromethorphan are best for a dry, non-productive cough to help suppress the cough reflex.” Some options include Robitussin and Nyquil.