Beating the Winter Cold and Flu Season

Winter is the most common season for contagious illnesses like the cold and flu. This is because the flu virus thrives in colder, drier air, and in the winter we're more likely to be huddled indoors with our loved ones, giving germs a short journey from person to person.

What's the difference between the cold and flu?

The cold and flu are both airborne respiratory illnesses, but there are only three types of flu, while hundreds of viruses could be responsible for your cold. They both involve headaches, fatigue, and chest discomfort. But there's no way around it-with the flu, you'll generally feel more miserable. You'll have body aches and chills and a combination of symptoms that may include chest pain, coughing, diarrhea, or vomiting. If you're still not sure, take your temperature. A common cold is rarely accompanied by a fever higher than 101 degrees.

I'm sick. What do I do now?

During the first three days of a cold or flu you are contagious, so protect your coworkers and loved ones by staying home. Sip hot soup or drink hot tea, stay hydrated, and plug in a vaporizer to keep moisture in the air. Lozenges can help with sore throats. Make yourself cozy on the couch and work your way through that neglected stack of Netflix movies: rest is an excellent way to help your body fight infection.

Should I go to the doctor?

Flu and colds are both caused by viruses, so antibiotics aren't going to help. Most of the time, your best bet is chicken soup and lots of sleep. However, there are a couple of things to watch out for: if your cold symptoms persist for more than a week, you may have a bacterial infection (a sinus infection, for example). If it's extremely painful to swallow, you may have strep throat. Both of these illnesses are bacteria based and will respond positively to antibiotics. And of course, if you are having extreme dizziness, difficulty breathing, or severe chest pain you should go visit your doctor immediately.

How about integrative therapies?

Few people realize that many integrative therapies can help during the onset of a cold or flu. Botanical medicine, reiki, dermal friction, and cupping can help provide comfort during early stage colds and flu, while moxibustion can offer protection against some cold and flu strains.

How can I prevent getting sick next time?

The most important step you can take in preventing another illness is to wash your hands frequently. Be mindful of how often you touch your nose, eyes, and mouth-each time you do, you could be infecting yourself with more germs.

To help keep your immune system strong, eat less saturated fats, exercise regularly, and drink green tea. Mind-body therapies, such as meditation, prayer, and yoga have been shown to boost immune function. Fruits such as acai berries, elderberries, and watermelons are immune-system-friendly too, so throw some fruit in the blender with some yogurt for a smoothie now and then.

References

http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/flu-cold-symptoms
http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/features/cold-comforts
http://www.health.harvard.edu/flu-resource-center/how-to-boost-your-imm…
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/05/health/research/05flu.html