Last Updated on Thursday, 18 March 2010 17:01

Research from fast-acting paracetamol, Panadol Advance, has shown that more than half of us follow family health advice passed down through the generations, despite the fact this may have little or no medical basis. For 18-34 year olds seeking health advice, Mums remain the first port of call, above doctors, pharmacists and even the internet.

Top Winter Wives’ Tales include:

MYTH 1: If you take painkillers regularly you can become immune to them (69%)

This is not true for the majority of painkillers.  While tolerance may develop with some of the opioid painkillers (e.g. codeine) this is not true for painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen.  This myth is something that people worry about and try to 'ration' their painkillers thus putting themselves at discomfort for no reason. It’s better to follow the instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist.

MYTH 2: You should feed a cold and starve a fever (37%)

There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that either of these has a significant impact upon the course of cold or ‘flu.  You’re more likely to just end up bloated or hungry! The best people can do is manage their symptoms with some over the counter medicines, get some rest, continue to eat sensibly and make sure you drink plenty of fluids.

MYTH 3: Chicken soup can help cure a cold (34%)

While chicken soup is generally a nutritious food option, so won’t do you any harm, it’s not the most effective medication for tackling colds. Instead, take over-the-counter products like paracetamol or ibuprofen to help reduce fever and relieve pain. Paracetamol is a good first choice painkiller for most people because it’s effective and has few side effects. Be careful though - many cold and flu remedies you can buy in shops already contain paracetamol, so be sure to check the product packaging of your cold and flu products if you’re going to take paracetamol or ibuprofen as you may exceed recommended dosage without realising. Always check the label and consult with your pharmacist and doctor for further guidance.

MYTH 4: You can get piles by sitting on a cold floor (30%)

This common condition, due to dilated blood vessels in the back passage, is usually caused by straining when going to the toilet – not by lounging around on a stone floor in winter time, although sitting on a hard surface may cause discomfort that brings them to your attention! Ironically, people often find that applying a cold pack relieves some of the symptoms of piles as it helps them to shrink.  There is a wide range of treatments available over the counter at the pharmacy, including creams, sprays and gels.  These help, but to prevent further occurrences try taking in more fibre and drink plenty of water.

MYTH 5: It’s better to take less than the recommended dose of painkillers (28%)

The recommended dose of any medicine has been carefully considered by scientists, so it’s absolutely safe. It’s also the amount of medication required to have the desired effect. In the case of painkillers, taking less than the recommended dose may mean that you aren’t able to manage your pain effectively.

Family GP and health writer, Dr Sarah Brewer, says: “There are lots of myths out there surrounding the treatment of winter ailments. Mums remain the first port of call 18-34 year olds seeking health advice, above doctors, pharmacists and the internet so are perfectly placed to cascade good health sense to their families.  By making sure they’re armed with the facts, we can help to kick the nation’s bad health habits.”

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