Colds & Flu
Colds & Flu
Colds and Flu are very common in the UK, both are respiratory infections and determining the difference between a cold and flu can be difficult
A cold tends to strike gradually & is not serious, it usually last for a week although you may appear to have recovered much sooner. Classic symptoms are congestion, sore throat and sneezing
Flu can last for up to 10 days and the fatigue associated with it may last for two or three weeks. The symptoms are similar to a cold & can also include one or all of the following – fever, extreme fatigue, muscle aches & headaches. More serious complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia can occur
What Causes Colds & Flu
Both conditions are caused by viruses that attach themselves to the lining of the nose or throat and spread throughout the respiratory system, occasionally to the lungs. When either virus attacks, the body tries to stop it by producing white blood cells that fight the infection & it is this that causes the symptoms & not the virus itself
Did you know?
Cold and flu viruses are more common in winter not because it is cold but is due to the fact that central heating systems are turned on which dries the air & makes it less moist – this creates a dry atmosphere which dries out the nasal passages & makes them a perfect breeding ground for the virus.
- Common Symptoms
- Congestion in the chest and head
- Coughing and sneezing
- Sore throat
- Watery nasal discharge
- Muscle aches
- Fever & Chills
- Headache
- Fatigue
What supplements can help?
The herb Echinacea is one of the most effective remedies for microbial infections Multivitamins & minerals taken throughout the winter will help to support the immune system & fend off an infection
Vitamin C can shorten or reduce the symptoms of a cold but it will not stop them
Echinacea actually stimulates the immune system to attack the virus and is very useful?
Zinc may also stop a virus and therefore halt a cold?
Garlic is a very important supplement that contains compounds that may prevent bacteria from invading tissues?
Echinacea combined with St Johns Wort combined together will help to treat a cold but not stop one occurring?
What else can you do?
regularly wash your hands to reduce the risk of catching a virus
Use a humidifier in the winter to keep air moist
Consider having a flu injection especially if you are elderly
Recent findings
Smokers are twice as likely to catch a cold as non smokers according to a recent study by the common cold unit of the medical research council in Wiltshire
Buy the recommended supplements
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