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COLD AND FLU

Cough & Colds

What are Colds?

Colds are caused by viruses that we catch from people around us. There are many different viruses that can cause cold symptoms. The symptoms of a cold can include stuffy and runny nose, sore throat, cough, fatigue and sometimes a fever. Colds usually last anywhere from 1-2 weeks and can happen at any time of the year – though they are more common in late winter and early spring. There is no cure for colds. Antibiotics DO NOT improve the symptoms or duration of a cold. 

Cold Symptoms

  • Runny nose and sneezing 

  • Red eyes 

  • Sore throat and cough 

  • Headaches and body aches 

  • Fatigue 

  • Fever (sometimes) 

A cold is not the same thing as the flu (influenza). Flu symptoms are usually worse and come on faster. People with the flu tend to feel a lot more fatigue and have higher fevers. You may also experience some shaking (chills), more body aches and headaches. See our section on FLU for more information.

Caring for Yourself at Home

If you have an uncomplicated cold, you do not necessarily need to see a doctor. There are plenty of things you can do at home to help your symptoms. 

  • Drink plenty of fluids 

  • Speak to your pharmacist about over-the-counter medicines to treat your symptoms 

  • Stay home! You are contagious – if you really need to leave the house, wear a mask to protect others 

  • Get plenty of rest 

  • Use saline nasal washes to help clear out mucus and keep your nasal passages open 

  • Use a vaporizer or humidifier to add moisture to your bedroom 

Preventing Colds

There are several things you can do to help prevent colds: 

  • Wash your hands often 

  • Be extra careful in the winter and when you're around people with colds 

  • Keep your hands away from your face. Your nose, eyes, and mouth are the most likely places for germs to enter your body. 

  • Eat well, and get plenty of sleep and exercise. This keeps your body strong so it can fight colds. 

  • Don't smoke. Smoking makes it easier to get a cold and harder to get rid of one.

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