By Feriha İbrahim
Colds and flu can affect
us at any time of the year, but we are more prone to pick up bugs as the
weather turns cold. Many people easily mistake the flu for just a bad cold.
While both can be dangerous for high risk groups, such as babies and the
elderly, flu kills thousands of people each year, so it’s good to be informed.
Often it’s hard to
differentiate between the two as they share similar symptoms (sneezing,
coughing, sore throat, etc). There are around 200 viruses that cause colds and
three that cause flu. The flu virus mutates each year creating many new
strains, which is why it’s important to have annual vaccinations to remain
protected.
Cold
The common cold is caused
by a viral infection of the nose and throat. According to the Common Cold
Centre in Cardiff
Usual symptoms for a cold
include:
- runny nose, beginning with clear mucus that
develops into thicker, green mucus as the cold progresses
- blocked nose / sneezing
- sore throat / cough
People may also suffer
with a mild fever, earache, tiredness and headache. The symptoms develop over
one or two days before clearing up a few days later, although bad colds can
last for up to two weeks.
Flu
Flu tends to be more
severe and can make you feel so unwell that you have to stay in bed until
you feel better. The symptoms come on more quickly than a cold, often with
a fever, chills, headache, achy muscles, and tiredness:
- high temperature (38-40°C)
- sweating
- loss of appetite, feeling nauseous
- dry, chesty cough
- sneezing
If you're generally fit
and healthy, you can usually manage the symptoms of a cold or flu yourself
without seeing a doctor. Take plenty of rest, drink non-alcoholic fluids to
avoid dehydration and avoid strenuous activity. Breathing in steam from a hot
bath or inhalant drops in a bowl of hot water can help ease a blocked nose. Hot
water with lemon juice and honey are soothing and hydrating, while herbal
remedies such as Echinacea, along with zinc and vitamin C can help the body
fight infections.
There are also lots of
good over-the-counter remedies to help ease the symptoms: painkillers such as
ibuprofen or paracetamol in either tablet or powder form are good for aches and
pain relief; there are vaporisers, decongestant tablets and nasal sprays for
blocked noses and to improve breathing; and throat lozenges, sprays and cough
syrups for sore throats.
Antibiotics can’t cure a cold or flu
Antibiotics can’t cure
viruses such as colds and flu: you have to wait for the body to fight and
destroy the virus itself. Bad colds can also result in bacterial infections,
such as bronchitis or strep throat, which is when your doctor would prescribe
antibiotics.
High risk groups should get a flu jab
The earlier in the season
you are vaccinated, the more time your body has to make the antibodies to fight
the flu virus, which can take up to 10 days. The Department of Health
recommends the jab for anyone who is/has:
o
Pregnant
o
Over 65
o
Asthmatic or Diabetic
o
Heart, Kidney or Liver Disease
o
Weakened Immune System
o
Main carer
Mothers-to-be are naturally wary of taking any
unnecessary medicines during their pregnancy. However, catching flu while
pregnant could be dangerous for both the mother and baby. Vaccination can help
prevent flu-related complications, reduce the risk of premature or low-weight
birth, and give a baby protection in the first few months of life.
The most vulnerable may also be eligible for a free
pneumonia vaccine, which offers protection for up to five years and can be
given at the same time as the flu jab. Those not eligible for free jabs can
take advantage of the walk-in service many pharmacies operate: it costs just
£10 per vaccination. Talk to your local pharmacist about any concerns. They can
check if you are eligible for free vaccinations and that medically you are well
enough to have these jabs.
Some people get flu-like symptoms after their vaccination,
which clear up after a few days. It is very rare to have a prolonged or serious
reaction to the jab, both those who do should immediately contact their
pharmacist or doctor.
Remember, 75%
of those getting the jab will not get flu this season and those who do will
have far milder symptoms. So don’t
wait for an epidemic, get vaccinated and enjoy a flu-free winter!
About the author: Feriha İbrahim is a fully qualified pharmacist who,
together with her family, runs Woodside Pharmacy – both branches are located in
Leytonstone, London E11.
Dealing with insect bites this summer, 13 July 2014
How to stop smoking, 30 May 2014
No comments:
Post a Comment