All About Flu and Colds
Today, in our health blog, we will examine two upper respiratory infections that are caught in many parts of everyone's lives and reduce the quality of life very much. Flu and cold are often seen in the transition from autumn to winter, but sometimes in the summer. Although it is thought that cold weather causes flu and colds among the people, this is not true. Then why are we more exposed to these diseases in the winter? What is the difference between flu and colds? What are the most effective treatment methods? We'il examine them all.
Differences Between Flu and Cold
Flu and colds are two different diseases that are confused by many people. Most of the time, one doesn't know which one he's caught. In fact, the viruses that cause both are different. By looking at the symptoms you can tell which one you have caught:
COLD PERCEPTION
Viral origin, symptoms begin 1-2 days after contact and the disease is mild course,
Fever is rarely seen,
Symptoms usually begin with throat and pain in the throat,
The cough first begins with a cough with phlegm and slowly returns to dry cough,
Nasal discharge occurs when sore throat has passed and usually lasts for 2 days,
Nasal congestion is common,
Muscle pain and fatigue are not seen,
Does not usually affect the digestive system,
Sneezing is very common and is the clearest symptom of this disease,
Headache is not common,
Tear is common,
Disorder in taste sensation is not common,
There is nothing you can do to prevent this disease, except that your immune system is resistant.
FLU
Viral origin, symptoms begin 1-2 days after contact and the disease progresses severely,
Fever is common, with redness on the face,
Runny nose starts suddenly,
Nasal obstruction is not common,
Sore throat is sometimes seen,
Dry cough can be seen,
Muscle aches are severe, the person feels very tired and sluggish,
The digestive system is affected; the person is likely to have diarrhea and vomiting,
Sneezing can sometimes be seen,
Headache is common and severe,
Tear is sometimes seen,
The taste sensation is impaired; one cannot enjoy the food he eats,
The person looks very bad from the outside,
You may get the flu vaccine to avoid this disease, but your immune system is also an important factor.
Does Cold Weather Cause Flu and Common Cold?
Contrary to popular belief, cold weather does not cause these diseases because both diseases are viral. However, in cold weather, the virus spreads much more quickly, since people are often found in confined and unventilated areas. In addition, since vitamin D is less active in the winter, our immune system becomes less resistant and more vulnerable to diseases. That's why we usually come across these diseases in winter.
Should Antibiotics Be Used in Flu and Cold?
It should not be used because it is a viral source and antibiotics only affect bacterial diseases. Unnecessary antibiotic use will reduce the effect of antibiotics on future illnesses.
What should we do to avoid influenza and colds?
Echinacea ( Echinacea purpurea ) containing preparations or teas to consume, to prevent upper respiratory tract infections and treatment is a commonly used and effective method.
Sambuci flos or Sambuci fructus (Elderberry); Commonly used for the prevention of colds and flu and shortening the duration of the disease. Preparations containing them may be preferred.
Vitamin C is recommended to strengthen the immune system, but you need to start vitamin C before becoming ill. Vitamin C is effective in treating these diseases.
The most effective method for influenza is to have the flu vaccine (see our other article for more information), but the vaccine is not protective against the common cold.
Wash hands frequently.
Keep away from confined spaces or ensure good ventilation.
Eating healthy and not skipping meals will strengthen your immune system.
Fruits containing vitamin C should be consumed frequently.
What can be done to reduce flu and cold?
Usually medicinal plants are very effective in changing the course of this disease. These plants are available in pharmacies as food supplements but those who do not want food supplements can also consume their tea. Here are some plants that are effective:
Eucalypti folium (eucalyptus leaves): Used for upper respiratory tract obstructions and as a supportive treatment.
Sambuci fructus (elderberry fruit): Diaphoretic (sweating) and is used for antiviral effects.
Sambuci flos: Used for its diaphoretic and antiviral effects.
Echinacea purpurea (echinacea): Used as a supportive treatment. Strengthens the immune system.
Tiliae flos: Used for its diaphoretic and soothing effects.
Salviae officinalis folium (sage leaves): Can be used for sore throat. Supports treatment.
Pelargonium sidoides: A is used because of its antiviral and immunumodulatory effects.
Zinc is often said in many sources to reduce the duration of the symptoms of colds, but in fact, the effect of placebo, according to many studies!
NOTE: DO NOT USE THE ABOVE SUPPLEMENTARY FOODS WITHOUT CONSULTING YOUR PHYSICIAN OR PHARMACIST. The text is for informational purposes only. The contents were created as a result of research; No guarantee is given for accuracy. Homework, thesis, presentation, project, etc. it is your responsibility to investigate the accuracy of the uses and correct any errors; it is always advisable to work with references from approved articles. Please write to us if you think there is a mistake or request a change.
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