Making it through the winter health hazards

As the weather gets colder, we become more vulnerable to contagious viruses because we spend more time indoors with others. Most bugs come and go within a few days, with no lasting effects. However, some can cause serious health problems.

Colds vs. flu

Although symptoms for each can be similar, colds and flu are very different.

Colds come on gradually and are usually distinguished by a stuffy or ­runny nose and sneezing. Other symptoms include coughing, a scratchy throat and watery eyes.

Influenza or flu comes on suddenly, is more serious and lasts longer than colds. Like colds, flu can cause a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing and watery eyes but symptoms also include fever, headache, chills, dry cough, body aches and ­fatigue. Young children may also experience nausea and vomiting with flu.

Prevention

There is a yearly vaccination that can help protect you from developing ­influenza. In Bermuda most doctors’ offices offer the vaccination as do health clinics. A flu vaccine is the best way to prevent and control influenza. It’s especially recommended for the elderly, children and people with chronic health conditions.

Both colds and flu can be passed through coughing, sneezing and contaminated surfaces, including the hands so another good ­preventative tip is to wash your hands regularly for about 15 seconds with warm, soapy water. Alcohol-based hand rubs may be used if soap and water are not available. Just keep in mind, though, that if your hands are visibly dirty, that dirt can inactivate the alcohol and it won’t be able to kill bacteria.

Treatment

Usually, colds and flu ­simply have to be allowed to run their course. In the interim, it’s important to limit your exposure to ­other people to prevent the illness from spreading. Also, cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and throw used tissues into the trash immediately. In addition, there are some things you can do to relieve the symptoms as the illness make its way out of your system. Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. Fluids can help loosen mucus and make you feel better, especially if you have a fever. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they may dehydrate you.

There are over-the-counter (OTC) options that can help relieve the symptoms of colds and flu but just make sure you read medicine labels carefully, follow directions and only take medicines that address the specific symptoms you’re having. Doubling up on ingredients could be harmful.

People with certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, should check with a health care professional or pharmacist before taking a new cough and cold medicine as some medicines can worsen ­underlying health problems. Also, check the medicine's side effects. Certain medications such as antihistamines can cause drowsiness and some medications can interact with food, alcohol, dietary supplements and each other.

The safest strategy is to make sure your health care professional and pharmacist know about every product you are taking, including nonprescription drugs so they can make a safe ­recommendation.

Go to a healthcare professional if you aren't feeling any better or if your symptoms worsen. A viral infection like cold and flu can lead to a bacterial infection such as bronchitis, sinusitis, ear infections and pneumonia that could require antibiotics. 

Stephanie Simons is the head pharmacist at Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire. For more information visit Lindo’s at www.lindos.bm