What is the treatment for colds and flu in winter, Colds and flu are conditions resulting from a viral infection of the respiratory system and are common in winter.
Colds and flu occur in winter due to the interaction of various factors, most importantly the spread of viruses that are active in cold weather, and the weakening of immunity resulting from reduced sun exposure and hormonal changes.
However, the flu is more severe than a cold, and its symptoms appear suddenly. These symptoms include fever and severe body aches, while colds are milder in terms of symptoms, such as sneezing and a runny nose.
Symptoms of colds and flu in winter
Cold symptoms include
- Sore throat.
- Runny nose.
- Nasal congestion.
- Body aches.
- Mild headache.
- Sneezing.
- Cough.
- Mild fever.
Flu symptoms include:
- Severe muscle pain, especially in the back and legs.
- High fever.
- Shivers.
- Severe headache.
- Extreme fatigue.
- General exhaustion and weakness.
- Redness and irritation of the eyes.
- Itchy throat.
- Runny nose.
- Cough.
- Joint pain.
- Difficulty breathing.
Causes of Colds and Flu in Winter
Colds and flu occur in winter due to
- Cold air reduces air humidity, causing dryness of the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract and reducing their ability to fight viruses.
- Weakened immunity; a deficiency in vitamins such as vitamin D, stress, and lack of sleep can weaken the immune system.
- The presence of viruses that cause colds and flu on surfaces.
- Direct contact with people who have colds and flu.
Methods of Diagnosing Colds and Flu
Diagnosis of colds and flu depends on symptoms and examination. Tests can be done to confirm a flu infection. Symptoms appear suddenly and include high fever, muscle aches, and chills.
Colds are diagnosed by identifying symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, coughing, and sore throat. Their symptoms are less severe than those of the flu and appear gradually.
Treatment for Colds and Flu in Winter
Treatment for colds and flu in winter focuses on rest and drinking plenty of fluids, along with using pain relievers and fever reducers prescribed by a doctor, which often contain paracetamol.
Home remedies can also be used in addition to pain relievers, such as drinking warm beverages and consuming honey, as well as nasal irrigation with saline solution to relieve congestion.
Medications for Treating Colds and Flu
The treating physician prescribes pain relievers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen to alleviate fever and pain caused by colds and flu. Examples of these medications include:
- Brufen Cold Tablets
- Panadol Cold & Flu
- Decanest SR Tablets
- Coldtrix Tablets
- Stopadol Cold Max Tablets.
- Florist N.
Ways to Prevent Colds and Flu in Winter
Ways to prevent colds and flu in winter include:
- Washing hands frequently to avoid spreading infection through touching surfaces.
- Getting the seasonal flu vaccine annually.
- Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoiding crowded places and people with colds and flu.
- Getting the seasonal flu vaccine is recommended.
- Boosting immunity by eating a healthy diet.
- Getting enough sleep.
Natural Drinks for Colds and Flu
Learn about some drinks that can alleviate the severity of cold and flu symptoms, including:
- Chicken noodle soup is a popular dish used as a natural remedy for colds and flu.
- Ginger has beneficial properties for treating sore throats and has an anti-inflammatory effect.
- Water is one of the best drinks for colds and flu because it helps cleanse the body of toxins and eliminate viruses.
- Green tea is also beneficial because it contains powerful antioxidants that help fight the flu and other viruses.
When should you see a doctor
- If symptoms persist and fever lasts for more than 3 days.
- If you experience chest pain or difficulty breathing.
- If you have a cold or flu and have a weakened immune system, such as diabetics, the elderly, or children.
Summary of the article
Colds and flu are illnesses resulting from viral infections of the respiratory system and are common in winter,They occur due to the spread of viruses that are active in cold weather and due to weakened immunity.
Treatment relies on rest and taking medications prescribed by a doctor. These medications are typically pain relievers and fever reducers to alleviate the symptoms of colds and flu during winter, along with drinking plenty of fluids.