Don´t let the Flu or a Cold...Put your life on Hold!
Flu
The flu is caused by a set of viruses, which occur in epidemics during the winter. Symptoms are similar to a cold, but tend to be more severe. The flu usually has a sudden onset and lasts 1-2 weeks. The general body symptoms of the flu, such as fever, body aches, and malaise, tend to be stronger than the respiratory symptoms. Complications are uncommon in young, healthy people but may include pneumonia, bronchitis, ear or sinus infections.
Colds
A cold is an upper respiratory infection caused by a virus. There are at least 200 different cold viruses, the most common one being the rhinovirus ("nose virus"). Symptoms of a cold usually include a runny nose, sneezing, coughing, sore throat, muscle aches, headaches, low-grade fever and congestion of the ears, nose and head. Colds usually last for a few days, but symptoms can persist for weeks.
Treatment
There are a lot of myths surrounding this topic; it seems as though everyone has a suggestion for how best to treat a cold or the flu. The trouble is, there isn't a miracle cure of any kind, and the over-the-counter drugs available in the supermarket only battle the symptoms, and not the cause. In truth, little can be done about a cold or the flu except ride them out once the virus has taken root. A sensible way to ride them out is to get lots of rest, drink plenty of water and stay warm and comfortable. Remember, your symptoms are a sign that your body´s defenses are working against the virus. Your body will ultimately heal itself, so be patient and be good to yourself!
Self-Care
- Drink extra fluids, at least one glass of water or juice every waking hour.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Inhale steam from a hot shower, vaporizer, or kettle. Moisten air with a humidifier.
- Avoid smoking.
- Over-the-counter medications such as decongestants, gargles, lozenges, cough syrups, or acetaminophen can relieve symptoms. It's usually best to take a single medicine targeted for a particular symptom, rather than an all-in-one preparation.
- Take ibuprofen (for example, Advil or Motrin), acetaminophen (for example, Tylenol or aspirin to reduce fever and relieve aches and pains. However, do not give aspirin to anyone under the age of 20.
- Contact your doctor if symptoms persist.
Prevention
- Wash your hands often.
- Avoid sharing objects with someone with a cold or flu.
- Reduce stress. Stress can lower your body´s ability to fend off colds and the flu.
- Keep a positive attitude
- Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
- Take Vitamin C supplements
- Get plenty of sleep (7-9 hrs)
- Drink lots of fluids (water, juice, herbal tea)
- Get a flu vaccine.
CSUB Student Health Services (661) 654-2394 ED12/05
See Influenza for more information on the flu or Viral Upper Respiratory Infections for colds.
For questions or assistance contact the Student Health Center (661) 654-2394.