Advertisement
Health TopicsInfectious DiseaseCold and Flu
question

Is it okay to drink alcohol when you have a cold?

Stacy Wiegman, PharmD
Stacy Wiegman, PharmD
Pharmacy Specialist
answer
You should not drink alcohol when you have a cold. It's dehydrating, and when you have a cold it’s important to keep the lining of your nose and throat moist. The moisture thins mucus so you can easily blow and cough it out. Be sure to drink other beverages, though—at least eight glasses of non-alcoholic fluids every day. And steer clear of caffeine, which is also dehydrating.

Continue Learning about Cold and Flu

The risks of RSV as a diabetes patient
The risks of RSV as a diabetes patient
People with diabetes are at higher risk for more severe complications when it comes to RSV. Tammie shares her story.
Read More
What vaccinations are important for older adults?
What vaccinations are important for older adults?
As a person ages, the immune system functions less well than it used to. The term for this is immunosenescence. This decline in immune function means ...
Read More
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in infants
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in infants
If you’ve been around babies and young children, odds are you’re familiar with coughs and runny noses. Cold-like symptoms can be caused by hundreds of...
Read More
What older adults should know about RSV infections
What older adults should know about RSV infections
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that causes respiratory infections. In most cases, RSV infections only cause mild illness similar ...
Read More

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.