The cold and flu season impacts many people in different ways. Sometimes, a simple cold is easy to manage, but when the symptoms are more than that of a cold, it is more than likely the flu. The symptoms of coughing, sneezing, and congestion are typical cold symptoms. When the symptoms include all of this plus body aches, fever, chills, muscle aches, green or yellow mucus, or tiredness, it could be the flu.
Generally, the flu is usually diagnosed by a doctor, and treated with prescribed medications. There are, however, some treatments that can be done at home to help mild cases of a cold or flu:
1. Robitussin
This is a cough medicine that can be taken by adults, and there is also a children’s formula. Taken as directed on the bottle, this will help eliminate much of the coughing, and many of the other mild symptoms of the ailments.
2. Theraflu
The warm sensation of this tonic eases body aches, and other flu-like symptoms. It is a mixture to be dissolved in water, then the patient drinks it for soothing relief. The ingredients are designed to help ease flu and cold symptoms when taken as directed on the package.
3. Cough and cold products
There are many brand products that simply say cough and cold, and will help with many of the symptoms of a cold or flu. Many of these products like the Nyquil brand come with two separate relievers for daytime and night time. Each one provides relief of symptoms plus the night time has a sleep enhancer for night time comfort. The cough, flu, and cold formulas are good for mild cases of cold and flu, but if symptoms persist after a few days a doctor should be consulted.
4. Sinus congestion
Sinus problems have symptoms that are similar to a cold. It consists of pain and congestion, aches, and mucus. This type of ailment takes medication that provides relief of the congestion and mucus. There are a myriad of sinus congestion over the counter medications that can be used to relieve the sinus pressure and congestion, but as with any ailment, a doctor should be consulted if the symptoms last too long.
5. Flu shot
This is the most effective preventative for the flu. The flu shot is recommended for everyone of all ages, especially older adults. It is a once a year shot that has been responsible for lower cases of the flu in many states. It should be administered before the flu season begins, but can be taken at any time during the season to help reduce cases of the flu. The shot is free for many people depending on the type of insurance they have. Older adults on Medicare can usually get the shot free with their medicare coverage.
Taking care of the symptoms of a cold or flu before they worsen is very important to avoid complications that could result in serious illness, or even death. Every necessary precaution should be made to prevent colds, and especially the flu which can be fatal if left untreated properly. Vitamin C is also great for the body in helping ward off symptoms of a cold or the flu.