Guest column:

So you’ve got the flu, or maybe just a common cold. Now what?

Tue, Mar 5, 2019 (2 a.m.)

It’s cold and flu season, but how can you tell the difference between the two?

The flu and the common cold are both respiratory infections caused by viruses, and the symptoms are similar but distinguishable. It’s important to know the differences — and how to treat their symptoms — to best alleviate discomfort and prevent others around you from getting sick. Here’s what to look for:

• Common cold symptoms include a gradual onset of illness, mild fatigue, sneezing and a stuffy nose, a sore throat and a mild to moderate cough.

• Flu symptoms include a rapid onset of illness, a fever in the 100- to 102-degree range, body aches and pains, intense fatigue lasting up to three weeks, and a severe cough.

Unfortunately, both the cold and the flu need to “run their course” and will not respond to antibiotics. There are a few things, however, you can do to help ease both your cold and flu symptoms:

• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of liquids, but avoid alcohol and coffee

• Rest and avoid excess physical activity

• Alleviate body aches with acetaminophen (for babies 6 months and under) or ibuprofen (for those over 6 months of age), as directed

• Drink warm liquids such as warm water with lemon and honey, clear broth and caffeine-free tea to soothe sore throats and break up mucus

• Turn on a humidifier to increase moisture in the air and ease cough and congestion

• Take over-the-counter medications that help relieve cold symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, fever, cough and congestion.

However, if you suspect you have the flu, call your doctor as soon as your symptoms appear to see if he or she recommends a prescription antiviral. These medications can drastically lessen the severity and duration of the flu if taken within the first 48 hours of the onset of your symptoms, and are available at your neighborhood pharmacy.

To avoid getting and spreading the flu altogether, prevention comes in many forms throughout the season: Remember to wash your hands frequently; avoid touching your face, mouth, and eyes; and avoid contact with infected people. And don’t forget, it’s not too late to get your flu shot. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older and is the best protection against the flu.

 

Nichole Baker is a pharmacy manager at the Walgreens at 9415 W. Desert Inn Road.

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