What is a Cold? – What is the Flu?

Colds are minor infections of the nose and throat caused by several different viruses. A cold may last for about one week, but some colds last longer, especially in children, elderly people, and those in poor health. In the United States, colds account for more visits to the doctor than any other condition. Adults get an average of two to four colds per year, mostly between September and May. Young children suffer from an average of six to eight colds per year. Colds are highly contagious.

How do I differentiate between the common cold and flu?

Cold and flu are often confused for one another because both are respiratory illnesses. The most notable difference is that the flu can result in serious complications such as pneumonia and bacterial infections or hospitalizations. Also, unlike symptoms of the common cold, the fatigue and weakness caused by the flu can last more than two weeks.

What is the difference between a cold and the flu?

The flu and common cold are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses. Because these two types of illnesses have similar flu-like symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. In general, the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense. Colds are usually milder than the flu.

How can you tell the difference between a cold and the flu?

Because colds and flu share many symptoms, it can be difficult (or even impossible) to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. Special tests that usually must be done within the first few days of illness can be carried out, when needed to tell if a person has the flu.

If I get the pandemic flu, which medicine should I take?

Antiviral drugs may help prevent infection in people at risk and lessen the impact of symptoms in those infected with influenza. It is unlikely that they would substantially modify the course or effectively contain the spread of an influenza pandemic.

Can You Catch the Flu or a Cold from Cold Weather?

Though the Flu and Colds are more common in the winter months because that is when the viruses spread across the country, it has nothing to do with being outside in cold weather.

What are the symptoms of the flu versus the symptoms of a cold?

In general, the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense. Colds are usually milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations.

Can I still take vitamins if I have a cold or flu?

While promoting good health is where nutritional supplements and herbs have been shown to have their best effects, it is certainly helpful to continue on your supplement program when sick. In fact, the added stress of fighting an infection significantly increases your body’s nutritional requirements. Continue taking your supplements until advised to stop or change dosages by your healthcare provider.

What is the treatment towards cold or flu?

There is no cure for cold or flu. Antibiotics, which do work to kill bacteria, do not work on viruses. However, home treatment can help to relieve the symptoms and ensure a speedy recovery. For adults, paracetamol, aspirin or ibuprofen can help to relieve fever and pain. Always follow instructions carefully and consume the recommended amount of doses.

What should I do if I get a cold or the flu?

If an acute illness occurs, avoid taking any drugs, over-the-counter medications or supplements as you might have done before. Call us first, especially if you are considering a doctor’s visit. An acute remedy may be called for, to support healing and can often replace the need for antibiotics and other drugs.

Is it a cold or the flu?

Influenza and a cold are both respiratory (breathing) system infections caused by viruses. Initial symptoms of flu and colds are similar, and it can sometimes be difficult to tell if you have the flu or a very bad cold. The flu can cause more serious illness than a common cold. Colds and flu are both highly contagious and, in the initial stages, a bad cold and a mild case of the flu might seem alike.

Are People with Allergies or Smokers at a Greater Risk of Cold or Flu?

Yes. People who have asthma or allergies may already have inflamed and irritated lungs. If their bodies are already fighting one irritant or illness, it is more difficult for them to fight of a virus. Smokers are also more likely to have irritated lungs and are more susceptible to a Cold or the Flu

What if I have a cold or the flu? Can I be excused when taking medicine to get well?

No. If you have a cold, flu, or hay fever, you should not take any medication of substance without first being sure that it does not contain a prohibited substance. This includes both over-the-counter and prescription medications from a doctor. A positive test, whether inadvertent or due to medical treatment, is still a positive test.

How can I know my cold or flu is not anthrax?

No. If you have a cold, flu, or hay fever, you should not take any medication of substance without first being sure that it does not contain a prohibited substance. This includes both over-the-counter and prescription medications from a doctor. A positive test, whether inadvertent or due to medical treatment, is still a positive test.

What if I have a cold or the flu? Can I be excused when taking medicine to get well?

Many human illnesses begin with what are commonly referred to as “flu-like” symptoms, such as fever and muscle aches. However, in most cases anthrax can be distinguished from the flu because the flu has additional symptoms. In previous reports of anthrax cases, early symptoms usually did not include a runny nose, which is typical of the flu and common cold.

What are the symptoms of catching a cold or flu?

Cold – The virus multiplies in the soft, warm surfaces found in the nose, throat, sinuses, the windpipe (trachea) and the breathing tubes (the bronchi). The main symptoms are blocked or runny nose, sneezing, sore throat and cough. There may also be a fever, aching muscles and fatigue. The symptoms usually last for a week.

How to prevent from getting cold and flu?

Aim for a healthy lifestyle a balanced diet, rich in fruit and vegetables, and regular (preferably daily) physical activity.

Is there any medicine I can take if I get the flu?

Yes. There are some drugs you can take to help your body fight any kind of flu. They do not stop the disease but they can cut down on the length of time you are sick. For these drugs to work they have to be taken within a day or two of the first symptom. It is recommended you see your doctor as soon as you start noticing flu-like symptoms.

How does diabetes affect how I respond to a cold or flu?

Being sick by itself can raise your blood glucose. Moreover, illness can prevent you from eating properly, which further affects blood glucose. In addition, diabetes can make the immune system more vulnerable to severe cases of the flu. People with diabetes who come down with the flu may become very sick and may even have to go to a hospital. You can help keep yourself from getting the flu by getting a flu shot every year. Everyone with diabetes, even pregnant women, should get a yearly flu shot.

How do I know whether I have got a cold or flu and do I treat them differently?

People with flu usually have a high temperature over 38C or 100.4F, ache all over and generally feel too poorly to get out of bed. The symptoms come on within the course of a few hours. People with colds are likely to have sneezing, a runny nose and sore throat, and the symptoms come on more gradually. Treatment for both conditions includes paracetamol, drinking of plenty of liquids, as well as rest. If paracetamol is taken it is essential not to exceed the dose stated on the pack.

Can I still take vitamins if I have a cold or flu?

While preventing illness is where nutritional supplements and herbs have been shown to have their best effects, it is certainly helpful to continue on your supplement program when sick. In fact, the added stress of fighting an infection significantly increase your body’s nutritional requirements. Continue taking your supplements until advised to stop or change dosages by your healthcare provider.

Can I take herbal supplements if I have the flu or a cold?

Yes. Herbal supplements are a dietary supplement made with plants or part of a plant. Herbal supplements have been used for centuries to provide relief from cold and flu. Their therapeutic properties work efficiently with minimum side effects.

Why does my doctor have me taking my pain medicine on a schedule rather than just when I need it?

Patients who have chronic pain are best treated with medications given on a regular basis throughout the day. Usually doctors prescribe long-acting pain medicines that work for 8 to 12 hours. Research has shown that treating chronic pain with doses around the clock prevents the pain from building up to the point in which it is much more difficult to control.

What can I do to lessen the likelihood I will get a cold or the flu?

Wash your hands. Use warm water and soap, and wash for at least 15 seconds being sure to get between all your fingers. Try to wash more frequently than usual, especially when you are touching doorknobs, tables and other surfaces that infected people may have touched. If you can’t get to a sink, use an alcohol-based hand cleaner regularly. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. This is particularly important if you haven’t had the chance to wash your hands.

How can I tell if it is a cold or the flu?

This can be difficult, but in general the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations.

What if I didn’t have any symptoms of a cold or the flu?

Remember that 25% of rhinoviruses (the viruses that cause colds) have no symptoms. The virus may be present in your nose but that doesn’t mean you’ll have a sore throat and streaming nose. It is possible that the only symptom may be the anosmia itself. Your doctor may describe this condition as idiopathic anosmia (or anosmia with no known cause) – however, this may still be a case of viral anosmia. Nobody is certain, although it seems unlikely.

Do anti-bacterial products kill cold and flu viruses?

No. Anti-bacterial soaps and cleansers alone do not kill cold and flu viruses, although these products can kill the bacteria that can lead to a host of other illnesses including strep and gastrointestinal infections.

How important is sleep in recovering from a cold or the flu?

Very important. Sleep creates energy the body requires to produce immune-system regulators like interferon. Rest and drinking plenty of fluids remain the two most important things you can do to insure a speedy recovery.

Should I take antiviral medicine for the flu?

The flu is caused by the influenza virus. Doctors classify the virus as influenza type A and type B, each of which includes several sub-types or strains. These strains are different from the original virus but retain some of its characteristics. Type A is usually responsible for the annual outbreaks that typically occur in the late fall and early winter. The influenza virus changes often, so having flu caused by one strain does not give you full immunity to other strains.

What if I have Influenza?

If you have influenza, you can expect the illness to go away on its own in about 7 to 10 days. In the meantime, you can take steps to feel better: Get extra rest. Bed rest can help you feel better. It will also help you avoid spreading the virus to others. Drink plenty of fluids to replace those lost from fever. Fluids also ease a scratchy throat and keep nasal mucus thin. Hot tea with lemon, water, fruit juice, and soup are all good choices.

What if I have a cold?

If you have a cold, you will most likely be sick for one to two weeks. The following are some remedies that can ease the symptoms. Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, soothe a sore throat with saltwater gargle, sip warm liquids, add moisture with a humidifier or try over-the-counter cold and cough medications. Visit the doctor if symptoms continue.

Can I Stop Taking My Prescription Medicine?

Herbs are a gradual and safe way to build and maintain health. Continue taking medicine because your body may be depending on it. Many people have gradually decreased drug dosage and frequency with the use of herbs. Be sure to consult with the physician who prescribed them.

What should I avoid while taking antiplatelet medicine?

Avoid smoking and limit your use of alcohol. Also, try to avoid cutting yourself. Use an electric shaver and soft-bristled toothbrush. You’ll also want to floss gently and wear gloves while gardening. If you need surgery (even a simple surgical procedure) or dental extraction, inform your surgeon or dentist that you are taking an antiplatelet drug. Talk to your dentist or doctor about whether you should consider delaying non-essential dental work until your treatment is finished.

Where can I get more information about cold, flu, and sinus infections?

Cold & Flu – (Includes symptoms for strep throat, allergies, bronchitis, & sinus infection) Amer Academy Family Physicians.

Have you recently had a cold, the flu, or a respiratory illness?

Weakness that occurs on one side of your face should be checked by a doctor right away to rule out more serious conditions. Early detection and treatment of Bell’s palsy may help prevent permanent nerve damage. Your doctor may order additional tests to look for other possible causes of your facial weakness and paralysis. These tests include: Bell’s palsy usually goes away without treatment, especially if you can still partly move the muscles on the affected side of your face.

How do I keep my family healthy during cold and flu season?

The best way to stay healthy no matter what the age is to get plenty of rest, eat a healthy diet consisting of plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables drink plenty of water, avoid others who are ill, and WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY. It is so important to teach our children good hygiene practices at an early age. And of course, when your child is ill, they should stay at home until they are symptom free to prevent the spread of illness to those around them.

Should I take antibiotics for a cold, flu or mild sore throat?

No, antibiotics are medicines used to treat infections caused by bacteria only. Antibiotics, therefore, do NOT cure all infections. Many infections like the common cold, flu or mild sore throat are caused by viruses. Antibiotics do not cure or shorten the duration of these conditions. Below is a table of some common infections, together with their usual causes, symptoms, expected length of illness and whether antibiotics are needed for these conditions: You start to feel better in 3-4 days.

Are there any symptomatic differences between the flu and a common cold?

Although both diseases share a set of common symptoms (running nose, coughing, sneezing, sore throat, etc) they are a lot more powerful and quicker in effect when the patient is dealing with the flu. In addition, the flu has several symptoms that cannot be related to a common cold, such as muscular aching, vomiting, high fatigue, a general state of weakness and a few others.

Even if I get a flu shot, can I still get the flu?

No vaccine is 100% effective, but generally, the flu shot protects most people. Other viruses also circulate during flu season, giving you symptoms that can feel like the flu. The flu shot will not protect you against those.

How is the flu spread?

The flu, much like the common cold, is airborne and can be easily transmitted from person to person. When a person infected with the flu virus sneezes, coughs, or even speaks, microscopic droplets that contain the virus are expelled into the air, which, if inhaled, can infect others. The flu can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth.

What is the Flu?

Influenza, also known as “the flu”, is a viral infection of the respiratory system, which includes the nose, throat, bronchial tubes and lungs. Influenza viruses are divided into three types, designated A, B, and C. Types A and B are responsible for nearly all of the influenza illness that occurs almost every winter. Infection with type C influenza usually causes either a very mild respiratory illness, or no symptoms at all. Types A and B are further subdivided into “strains”.

What is pandemic flu?

A type of influenza (flu) that occurs every few decades and which spreads rapidly to affect most countries and regions around the world. It is generally associated with much higher rates of illness and has the potential to cause many deaths and significantly disrupt lives and services Scientists are predicting that another pandemic will occur, although it is very difficult to say when.

What is pandemic flu?

A type of influenza (flu) that occurs every few decades and which spreads rapidly to affect most countries and regions around the world. It is generally associated with much higher rates of illness and has the potential to cause many deaths and significantly disrupt lives and services. Scientists are predicting that another pandemic will occur, although it is very difficult to say when.

What is “Bird Flu”?

Bird Flu” or Avian Influenza is a highly contagious viral disease that can classified as either low pathogenic (low mortality) or high pathogenic (up to 100% mortality). Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza like the common flu in humans is a common annual event in birds. High Pathogenic Avian Influenza like the H5N1 virus circulating in Asia, Europe, and Africa is less common.

How do I find out if I have the flu?

It is very difficult to distinguish the flu from other viral or bacterial causes of respiratory illnesses on the basis of symptoms alone. A test can confirm that an illness is influenza if the patient is tested within the first two to three days after symptoms begin. In addition, a doctor’s examination may be needed to determine whether a person has another infection that is a complication of influenza.

Who can get a flu shot?

In general, anyone OVER THE AGE OF SIX MONTHS who wants to reduce his or her chances of getting the flu can get vaccinated. However, certain people should get vaccinated each year. They are either people who are at high risk of having serious flu complications or people who live with or care for those at high risk for serious complications.

Who should not get a flu shot?

Flu vaccine is not recommended for people who are allergic to eggs or flu vaccine. People who have had a serious reaction to flu vaccine in the past, previously developed Guillain-Barre syndrome within six weeks of getting a flu shot, or those who have a fever.

What else can I do to prevent the flu?

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing or cough into your upper sleeve, not your hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner.

What should we know before taking cold and flu medication called Antihistamines?

First, you must know whether the antihistamines prescribed to you will cause drowsiness or not, as this may potentially be dangerous if you are going to drive or operate any machinery. Second, let your pharmacist knows what other medications you are taking as some drug interactions with non-drowsy group of antihistamines are fatal.

When are You Most Contagious When You Have a Cold?

You are most contagious one day before your symptoms start and up to about seven days after their onset. You are most contagious earlier in your illness rather than later.*

What do I do for my child with a cold?

A cold is a runny or stuffy nose caused by a virus. On average healthy children get 6 colds per year though it is not unusual for them to get 2 colds per month during the “sick” months of winter. Nasal drainage may be clear, cloudy, yellow or green. The color of the drainage has no significance in diagnosing a bacterial infection, sinusitis or a need for antibiotics. There is no cure. Treatments are directed at increasing comfort until the viral infection runs it course.

Is it ever too cold to snow?

In principle it can snow at any temperature below freezing. It snows at the South Pole even though the temperature is rarely above -40 C (-40 F). In more hospitable climates, however, it doesn’t snow so much when the temperature is below around -20 C (-4 F). When a parcel of moist air cools, it starts producing snow before it gets that cold. By the time the temperature drops to -20 C, the snow has already fallen and the air is pretty dry.

Do I have to stop drinking if I am taking prescription or over-the-counter medicine?

Possibly. More than 100 medicines interact in harmful ways with alcohol. The effects of alcohol are greater with medicines that slow the central nervous system, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, sleeping pills, anti-anxiety medicines, and some painkillers. Medicines for certain disorders, such as heart disease and diabetes, can be dangerous when used with alcohol.

Which kind of water do I have to drink when taking medicine?

When you take medicine in alkaline water, its efficacy may be weakened if it absorbs in the body too fast or is combined with mineral. Therefore, it will be good to use water that is produced on stage 0 (that’s a condition in which water is not electrolyzed but purified).

What is the difference between Seasonal Flu, Avian Flu, and Pandemic Flu?

Seasonal Flu is what we usually think of as “the flu.” It is a respiratory illness caused by many different influenza (flu) viruses and can be spread easily from person-to-person. Seasonal flu typically occurs between November and April with symptoms including fever, headache, fatigue, dry cough, sore throat, nasal congestion and body aches. Avian Flu (or “Bird Flu”) is a term used for a set of flu viruses that cause diseases mainly in birds.