Is it Time to Call a Doctor for Allergies or a Cold?<\/h2>\n\n\n**If symptoms extend beyond 7 days, give your doctor a call.** In the first week, for symptomatic relief, one may take 1. Ibuprofen for any sore throat, sinus pressure 2. Normal saline irrigations with perhaps the Neilmed Sinus Rinse bottle 2-3x\/day 3. An antihistamine such as Zyrtec, Xyzal, Allegra, or Claritin for itchy nose, drainage 4. An antihistamine\/decongestant in the morning (for those without elevated blood pressure) for congestion and drainage, sinus pressure 5. Cepacol lozenges for sore throat and\/or 6. A cool-mist humidifier in the bedroom at night for all of the above symptoms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n