Cold or Flu?

Q: I seem to get sick all of the time! Is there something wrong with me?
A: Have you ever wondered why you seem to get so many colds in the winter? The answer is because there are over 200 viral strains that cause the upper respiratory tract syndrome known as the common cold! To make matters worse, the virus is easily transmitted through the air and on solid objects. Stress, smoking, and getting “run down” lower your body’s defenses and increase your susceptibility to infection.

Q: What are the symptoms and treatment of the common cold?
A: The common cold is a viral syndrome that causes over 90% of the nasal congestion, fever, chills, sore throat, and general aches and pains that people experience. Because it is caused by a virus and not bacteria, the common cold is not affected by the use of antibiotics. Although there is no cure for the common cold, symptoms can be treated by taking the time to rest, drinking lots of fluids, and using cough suppressants, throat lozenges, and decongestants. Check the labels when using over-the-counter remedies because they can have side effects like drowsiness, insomnia, or can interact with other medication that you may be taking. A common cold usually resolves in 7 to 10 days.

Q: “What is the Flu?”
A: The “flu” (“influenza”) is caused by a respiratory virus that commonly occurs in the Northern Hemisphere between October and April. There are two types, A or B. Since there are different strains of the virus, the severity of flu season varies from year to year.

Q: What are the symptoms?
A: Unlike the common cold, the “flu” usually begins suddenly with severe symptoms. They include fever, cough, runny nose, congestion, sore throat, headache, muscle and body aches, and fatigue.

Q: What is the treatment?
A: First, it’s important to take the time to take care of yourself. Flu symptoms can be treated by rest, plenty of fluids, and Tylenol. Two new medications have been approved by the FDA help to shorten the course and lessen the severity of the flu if they are started within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.

Q: Is there anything I can do to avoid getting the flu?
A: BE PREPARED!

• Get the “Flu Shot.” The Flu shot helps your body make antibodies to the Flu. Since new strains of the influenza virus develop each year, the vaccine must be updated and given yearly.
• Guard against getting colds and flu by maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes good nutrition, and adequate rest. If you smoke, quit.
• Limit the spread of infection, avoid crowded places, wash your hands often, and cover your mouth when you sneeze.