Coping with a cold or the flu Unfortunately there is no true cure for a cold or the flu. Antibiotics only help with bacterial infections. They do not kill viruses. In some instances your doctor may prescribe certain antiviral drugs to reduce the severity of the flu; however, these drugs must be taken within 48 hours after the flu begins. You may be able to get some relief by: • Drinking plenty of fluids. • Resting in bed.• Taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) for a headache, fever or mild aches and pains. • Gargling with warm salt water or using sprays or lozenges for a sore throat. • Taking over-the-counter antihistamines. |
stop cold & flu germsby Lori Cornell Did your holiday season bring an unwanted gift this year? Colds and flu tend to peak from November through March. According to an article from FDA Consumer, contrary to what many people believe, the increased rate of colds during this time is actually not due to the cold weather. Researchers at the National Institute of Health’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases found people tend to feel under the weather in the winter months because of the greater time spent indoors, increasing the opportunity for viruses to spread among people. Also, the lower humidity during the colder months helps cold-causing viruses thrive and may dry the lining of the nasal passages, making them more susceptible to infection. What is the flu? Symptoms of colds Symptoms of the flu Preventing a cold or the flu • Wash your hands often. • Clean surfaces such as telephones, shopping carts and stair railings with a virus killing disinfectant. Viruses can live for three hours on surfaces. • Try to avoid people with colds. • The best way to prevent the flu is a yearly vaccination (not available for the common cold). There is no evidence that your chances of getting a cold are related to factors such as exercise, diet, exposure to cold weather or from getting chilled or overheated. However, research suggests that psychological stress and allergic diseases affecting your nose or throat may play a role in your chances of becoming infected by cold viruses. Always be sure to contact your doctor if your cold or flu symptoms do not seem to be getting better. Sometimes a cold or the flu can lead to some more serious illnesses such as sinusitis or bronchitis. According to a recent survey from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, more than 30 million missed workdays each year can be attributed to these respiratory conditions. Here’s to a healthy and happy flu season! You must be logged in to leave a comment. Click here to login or register. |
Grow It. Make It. Know It. :
March 13, 2010 - October 23, 2010
Location: Preble County
Paws in the Plaza :
April 01, 2010 - December 02, 2010
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May 08, 2010 - September 11, 2010
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