The cold and cozy weather is right here! And it is time of the year to slip into your sweatshirt, snuggle up with a cozy blanket, or relish some comfort foods to stay warm and snug during the winter chill. But the seasonal change often brings a surge in cold and other seasonal infections. Here are five common winter illnesses, along with their treatments and tips to prevent them:
Influenza (Flu)
The flu is not a severe health ailment like the common cold, but it should not be ignored. It is a communicable viral infection that can also be mild or severe. With flu, a person may experience body pain, sore throat, fever, headaches, and fatigued.
Treatment: Good rest, proper hydration, and taking over-the-counter antiviral medications prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Prevention: Get a flu vaccine, practice good hand, and stay away from sick people.
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Common Cold
The common cold is one of the most prevalent and often ignored ailments, as we assume that the cold is part of a shift in season. Sore throat, chest congestion, headache, sneezing, and runny nose are typical cold symptoms. It can affect both adults and children, and it mostly settles in a couple of days and does not need any serious medical intervention.
Treatment: Proper rest, hydration, over-the-counter cold medications, and home remedies like hot tea and steam inhalation.
Prevention: Wash hands frequently, avoid touching the face with unwashed hands, and maintain distance from people with colds.
Norovirus (Stomach Flu)
Stomach flu or gastroenteritis is a viral intestinal infection. Some symptoms are watery, loose stools, abdominal cramps, nausea, or vomiting, and, at times, fever. It is transmitted from an infected person or by consuming contaminated food or water. Most healthy adults will recover without complications, but stomach flu can be deadly if not properly treated for infants, older people, and those with weakened immune systems.
Treatment: Good hydration, rest, and having easily digestible foods. In severe cases, seek medical attention.
Prevention: Wash hands thoroughly, especially before eating, and avoid close contact with infected individuals. Disinfect surfaces regularly.
Strep Throat
A sore throat is distressing and uncomfortable, while a strep throat is even worse. Strep throat is a very serious form of a sore throat accompanied with fever caused by a bacterial infection. It is widespread among children. Symptoms include pain and difficulty while swallowing food or water, headache, swollen lymph nodes, fever, and fatigue.
Also Read: Sore Throat 101: Know About the 8 Common Causes of Sore Throat
Treatment: In case of sore throat, salt water gargle, tablets may help, but with strep throat, you need to consult a healthcare provider and take antibiotics as prescribed.
Prevention: Rest well, drink plenty of warm water, and seek medical attention.
Bronchitis
Bronchitis is very common in children or toddlers below the age of 2 years. It is a respiratory infection caused by RSV or the respiratory syncytial virus. Breathing problems due to inflammation of the airways as they get clogged are the common symptoms. Individuals with bronchitis may also have mild fever, nasal congestion, wheezing, and coughing.
Treatment: Rest, hydration, steam, and taking OTC cough suppressant or pain reliever as suggested by healthcare provider.
Prevention: Good sleep, rest and plenty of fluids.
Tips for General Winter Wellness:
Stay Hydrated: Cold air can dehydrate, so ensure you drink adequate water even if you don't feel as thirsty.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat a wholesome and varied diet abundant in vitamins and minerals to support your immune system.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps boost the immune system and improves overall well-being.
Get Sufficient Sleep: A good night's sleep is l for a robust immune system and overall health.
Dress Appropriately: Wear warm clothing, including hats and gloves, to protect yourself from the cold.
Keep Living Spaces Well-Ventilated: Proper ventilation can help lower the risk of indoor pollutants and the spread of respiratory infections.
Practice Good Hygiene:
Wash your hands frequently.
Close your mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing.
Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
Remember if you experience severe symptoms or have underlying health conditions, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate advice and treatment.
Disclaimer
The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned on the blog.
