Fighting Viruses With the Right Care
By Donna Stark
There are a lot of things to look forward to this year but getting sick definitely isn't one of them. That's why it is so important to stay on top of your healthy habits every single day! But what should you do if you wake up with those first few symptoms that signal something has gone terribly wrong? The body aches, the itch in your throat, the spike in temperature. Well, if your first instinct is to call your mom and beg for some of her homemade chicken soup, go right ahead. But then after that, follow the tips below to heal as quickly as you can.
Know the Difference
It's good to know the difference between the common cold and something more serious because your course of treatment will depend on that. Take a look at the symptoms that both the cold and the flu share with each other.
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sore throat
- Sneezing or coughing
- Lack of energy
- Body aches
Now, take a look at the symptoms that set the flu apart. These symptoms are generally more intense and severe than the symptoms you experience with a cold.
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Rapid onset of symptoms
Know What to Do
If you suspect it is only the common cold causing problems, there isn't much you can do other than to take care of yourself as much as possible and to let it run its course. Here are some healthy habits to focus on.
- Wash your hands frequently
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow
- Consume a nutritious diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
- Get plenty of rest (your body needs it!)
If things start to turn and symptoms become unbearable, it is recommended to stay home and keep clear of others. Remember, you can be contagious for several days after you began to feel sick, so be kind to those around you, and take the necessary precautions. A visit to your primary doctor may also be in order, so give the office a call and get that scheduled as soon as you can. You don't want to let a bad situation get worse!
Feeling Better With the Right Care
The days when you are sick may feel like the longest days of the year, but with the right care and great nutrition, you will start to feel better in no time! And if you can convince your mom or someone else to make that soup you enjoy so much, good health may come back your way sooner than you think!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Greenville, S.C.