Flu can be a debilitating illness that leaves you feeling miserable for days, if not weeks. Preventing cold and flu before you get it not only saves you money on doctor consultations but also avoid all the unnecessary pain and shortcoming when you're unwell!
What is Cold and Flu?
Cold is a viral infection that causes the nasal passages to become inflamed and produce mucus. Cough, sore throat, and runny nose are all common symptoms of cold. On the other hand, flu is caused by a different type of virus compared to cold. It can be serious if not treated properly and can potentially lead to pneumonia or death in some cases. Symptoms include:
Runny nose that produces clear mucus (not green or yellow)
Sneezing without being around people who have been sick recently (in other words, if you sneeze on someone else who has never had any symptoms before then they may catch your illness)
But how do you tell cold and flu apart?
How to Avoid Catching Cold or Flu
Wash your hands often.
Avoid contact with sick people.
Get enough rest, especially when you're feeling under the weather.
Eat a healthy diet, including fruits and vegetables that provide vitamin C (vitamin C helps fight off infections).
Disinfect shared surfaces.
Natural Remedies for Cold and Flu
There are many natural remedies for cold and flu that you can use to help prevent cold and flu. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Echinacea: Studies have shown that this herb can reduce cold symptoms by as much as 50%. It also works well against strep throat, which is caused by bacteria.
Vitamin C: This vitamin has been shown to help fight off both bacterial and viral infections by boosting your immune system. It is best if you take 1000mg at once.
Honey: Honey contains antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. If you're feeling under the weather, try adding some honey to your tea with lemon. But be careful not to give honey to children under one year old, as it may contain botulinum spores that their immune systems can't handle. However, honey is generally safe and effective for older kids and adults.
When to See a Doctor
If you have fever, breathing difficulty or severe headache, consult a doctor immediately. You should also inform your doctor if you have persistent vomiting and body aches after taking over-the-counter medications.
Boosting your immune system can help prevent the flu virus from taking hold of your body. Get plenty of rest, eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Consider taking a multivitamin or other immune-boosting supplements to give your body the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.
