Winter is here and it brings the dreaded cold and flu season! But don't worry - with just a bit of extra caution, you can stay healthy. Keep an eye out for telltale signs of cold and flu symptoms such as sore throat, stuffy nose, or increased sneezing and coughing. With a bit of extra care, you can make it through the season unscathed.
The first few days are often the worst with symptoms often dissipating within a week. The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has found that each year, adults have an average of 2 to
3 colds, and children have even more.
Flu and the common cold are two distinct illnesses. They may present with similar symptoms, but flu tends to cause more serious and debilitating effects than the common cold.
When affected by the flu, an individual may need to stay in bed for several days; whereas a cold will usually just make the person feel unwell. Colds and flu are both caused by viruses; however, they are not the same as viruses.
There is an array of viruses which can cause the common cold but there are only three viruses which cause the flu. When a person is affected by the flu the virus infects a person’s lungs and
upper airways.
Some
symptoms you may experience include,
- blocked or runny nose
- sore throat
- headaches
- muscle aches
- coughs
- sneezing
- a raised temperature
- pressure in your ears and face
- loss of taste and smell
Research undertaken by the NHS indicates that people are capable of transmitting colds and flu until all symptoms have been eliminated. Colds can be spread via airborne particles released from coughing and sneezing. These germs can survive on hands and surfaces for up to
24 hours.
Some useful practices to regularly take to help prevent the spread of cold and flu is to wash your hands regularly with warm water and antibacterial soap. Using a tissue when coughing and sneezing can help prevent the spread of germs. Additionally, avoiding touching your face, eyes and nose can reduce the chances of self-infection.
A balanced diet with plenty fruit and vegetables, regular exercise, avoiding stress, and consistent sleep are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and reducing the risk of infection.
The immune system acts as the body's defence mechanism against infection and disease. It combats a range of conditions, from the common cold to more serious ailments such as cancer. Consuming immune boosting vitamins can accelerate recovery from illness, making it a great way to stay healthy during the winter season.
Revive Active is a super supplement containing a unique blend of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. It is designed to support an active lifestyle with 26 active ingredients that promote energy levels, immune system health and nervous system wellbeing.
Revive Active is a supplement that can help to restore your immune system to an optimal level, reducing your chances of catching colds and flu. It should be taken once daily and contains vitamins B6, B12, C and D as well as folate, thiamine, copper, zinc, and selenium.
Households can find it difficult to avoid being infected by cold or flu once one individual in the house falls ill. Air purifiers can be a great way to stop the spread of infection as they help to remove airborne particles which can lead to illnesses. Without a proper air purifier, it is likely that everyone in the household will become ill or be reinfected.
Air purifiers like the
Salin Air purifier can remove airborne pollutants and dust, as well as the smallest microbes. This helps to reduce harmful germs in the air. Additionally, salt ions are released which can help cleanse your airways and eliminate impurities which could cause discomfort.
A Vogel Echinaforce Echinacea Drops are a traditional herbal remedy for colds and flu. They contain natural ingredients that can help strengthen the immune system and reduce symptoms associated with those infected, promoting overall health. This product helps to bolster the body's defence against infection.
Some other at home remedies for cold and flu like symptoms include, gargling salt water for a sore throat, taking over the counter medication to manage aches, pains and temperature, getting plenty of rest, or getting the flu vaccine before each winter season.
It is best to ask your doctor or pharmacist about taking any medication to help treat cold and flu symptoms. Always make sure to read the leaflet carefully and to ensure you are taking the right amount of dosages as many cold and flu medications contain ibuprofen or paracetamol.
