Flu and The Common Cold

Common cold are minor (viral) infections of the nose and throat caused by several different viruses.

• A cold may last for about one week. Certain colds last longer, especially in children, the elderly, and those of poor health.
• Young children suffer between 8 and 12 colds per year.
• Cold are very contagious, and most often spread when droplets of fluid that contain a cold virus are inhaled or transferred by touch.

Usually, colds start exhibiting symptoms one to three days after a cold virus enters the body. Most of the symptoms are associated with irritation of the respiratory passages, and may be a combination of any of the following:

• Nasal and sinus congestion
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Sneezing
• Mild fever
• Dry coughing with little or no sputum
• Typical muscle and body aches
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Watery eyes

More severe symptoms are usually seen in smokers than non-smokers.

A cold usually runs its course in 4 to 10 days. However, coughing sometimes persists.

See a doctor if symptoms get worse because you might be dealing a bacterial rather than a viral infection. Some colds could possibly lead to bacterial infection of the ears, sinuses, windpipe and airways, and may require antibiotic treatment. The other signs you should see a doctor:

• Difficult or painful breathing
• Persistent fever and chills
• Earache
• Severe headache
• Enlarged and tender lymph nodes in the neck

The common cold has no cure, as you might already know. To treat cold best, the following regime is recommended:

• Get plenty of rest. Your immune system functions at its best when you are relaxing, asleep or meditating. Avoid vigorous activities. Also, wash your hands frequently to prevent spreading the virus.
• Gargling with warm, salty water soothes sore throats. Additionally, suck on a hard candy to keep it lubricated.
• Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. This thins respiratory secretion and makes them easier to cough up.

The flu, short for influenza, is an infection of the respiratory system caused by the influenza virus.

There are three types of the influenza virus: A, B and C.

• Types A and B are the most severe. The viruses change constantly and different strains circulate around the world every year. Our bodies natural defenses cannot keep up with these changes. Therefore, a person should get a flu shot each year.
• Type C causes either a very mild illness, or displays no symptoms at all. It does not cause epidemics and does not have the severe public health impact that influenza types A and B do.

Flu symptoms are usually more severe than those of colds, and come on abruptly. One can feel well in the morning but extremely ill in the afternoon. Influenza makes people feel worse than an ordinary cold. The greatest difference between a cold and influenza is the degree of tiredness and discomfort. Influenza causes severe tiredness that result in the affected person wishing to simply sleep and rest to recover. Flu symptoms include:

• A body temperature of 101 Fahrenheit or above
• Coughing
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Chills
• Tiredness
• Loss of appetite

The most common complications from influenza are bronchitis and secondary bacterial pneumonia.

Rest, drinks plenty of fluids and take analgesics. Most influenza-like illnesses are self-limiting. Seek medical advice if symptoms become severe or last for more than a week. People with chronic illness may require earlier medical attention. Antivirals are recommended for adults who are at an increased risk of developing complication. Vaccinations offer the best protection.

How The Flu Vaccine Works

About 7 - 10 days after vaccination, our body is armed with enough antibodies to protect against any similar viruses that may infect our body. This protection lasts for about a year.

The flu vaccine is generally safe. Mild side effects include soreness where the shot was given, mild fever and aching muscles that last a few days. The vaccine will not cause flu because it contains killed flu virus. People who are allergic to eggs or other components of the vaccine should not be vaccinated.