Colds can feel inevitable at this time of year. The average adult gets 2 to 3 colds a year, and kids get them even more often. Add about 8% of Americans to that equation who get the flu each year.
Plus, you may also be at risk of catching other respiratory illnesses. Depending on your age, those could turn into something more serious and even lead to a hospitalization.
Here’s what you need to know about these respiratory ailments and how to treat them, as well as how to keep your immunity in tip-top shape throughout cold and flu season.
Yes. The flu is most common during the fall and winter. Flu season peaks between December and February and can extend into May. Other respiratory viruses also peak at this time of year.
But “there’s no true peak cold season — you can catch a cold all year long,” explains William Li, M.D. He’s the president and medical director of the Angiogenesis Foundation in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and the author of Eat to Beat Disease.
That said, colds are more common in the winter months. “As temperatures drop, more people gather indoors, where viruses can spread in close quarters,” says Dr. Li. He adds that drier winter air can also contribute to an uptick in cases. That’s because it’s easier for viruses to invade your nasal passages when they are less moist.
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Both have similar symptoms, but there are some key differences. “Colds tend to be upper respiratory infections affecting you from the neck up,” says Neil Schachter, M.D. He’s a professor of pulmonary medicine at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City and the author of The Good Doctor’s Guide to Colds and Flu. Cold symptoms often include a stuffy nose, sneezing and/or a sore throat. Fever, chills and body aches are less common with colds.
The flu tends to be a more serious illness, notes Dr. Schachter, with symptoms affecting the whole body. And its symptoms often come on suddenly, whereas cold symptoms come on more slowly. Common flu symptoms include:
A cold or the flu does not usually require a trip to the doctor. But you may want to call your doctor in the following situations:
There are tests to diagnose the flu, but your doctor may diagnose it based on symptoms alone. They may also run tests to rule out other illnesses.
You’ll also want to be on the lookout for symptoms of other respiratory viruses, which often mimic other respiratory illnesses such as the cold and flu. These symptoms include:
The symptoms of RSV, on the other hand, are usually mild and cold-like. But depending on your age, it may turn into something more serious. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you think you might be experiencing symptoms of any of these viruses. They can help get you on the path to feeling better.
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There is no cure for colds or the flu. “Your body’s immune response will get you through most colds and flus,” says Dr. Li. But there are many over-the-counter (OTC) medications that can help relieve symptoms.
Not all of these medicines are safe for everyone. If you take other prescriptions, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about which OTC medicines are safe for you. And ask your doctor or pharmacist about which OTC medicines are safe for young children. Dr. Schachter adds that if you take more than one of these combination medicines, you should make sure that you are not taking the same ingredients twice, as it may lead to unwanted side effects.
If you do have the flu, you can ask your doctor about a prescription antiviral treatment. Antivirals can shorten sick time by a day or two and prevent serious flu complications, such as pneumonia. They are most effective if they are taken during the first 48 hours of the illness, says Dr. Schachter. Antivirals are a good idea for people who have a high risk of serious flu complications, such as:
Keep in mind that antibiotics will not work for a cold or the flu because those illnesses are caused by viruses.
Most people can get over a cold or the flu without any medication. Getting plenty of rest and drinking a lot of fluids is the first line of treatment. Other simple home remedies can help as well. Some suggestions:
It is possible to avoid catching a cold. There’s plenty you can do to protect yourself and boost your immune system. The first step is to limit your exposure to viruses. Avoid contact with people who are sick. Wearing a mask in crowded places, such as public transportation, may help protect you.
You’ll also want to wash your hands frequently. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), washing your hands can help prevent the spread of viral infections. But be sure to do it correctly:
There are also things you can do to strengthen your immune system so that it can fight off infections more effectively.
Eating a healthy diet can also help your immune system. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, lean protein and healthy fats will provide all the nutrients you need for a strong immune system.
Eating foods that promote gut health is also important. Believe it or not, the microbes in your gut play an important role in maintaining your immune system. A high-fiber, plant-rich diet supports the growth of good microbes in your gut, while diets high in processed foods, refined sugar and red meat can increase harmful bacteria in the gut. Fermented foods and drinks are great for gut health. Those include:
Here’s a look at 3 common supplements often touted as being helpful against respiratory bugs.
Yes. Here are a few reasons:
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get a flu vaccination every year. For most people, September or October is a good time to get vaccinated. The vaccine takes about 2 weeks to become fully effective, so be sure to get it well in advance of holiday travel and gatherings. If you’re not up to date with your other boosters or vaccines, it’s a good idea to get those at the same time too.
Need a health plan for you or your family? Explore your options now, or contact a licensed insurance agent at 1-844-211-7730.
For informational purposes only. This information is compiled by UnitedHealthOne and does not diagnose problems or recommend specific treatment. Services and medical technologies referenced herein may not be covered under your plan. Please consult directly with your primary care physician if you need medical advice.
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