Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/103743
The common cold and influenza, or flu, are both respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, according to Dr. Brian Duff, a family medicine physician at CoxHealth Center Nixa. "With the common cold, symptoms are nasal congestion, sneezing, a runny nose, sore throat, mild achiness and possibly a low fever," explains Dr. Duff. He says treatments such as decongestants, pain relievers or fever reducers are OK as long as the person does not have high blood pressure. "The symptoms of influenza tend to be much more severe than the common cold," says Dr. Duff. "It hits you all of a sudden." Dr. Brian Duff Flu symptoms include a fever, sore throat, a dry cough, fatigue and body aches. With the flu you are more at risk for other health problems, such as pneumonia and hospitalization. If you think you have the flu it is important to call your physician, says Dr. Duff. Tamiflu is a helpful prescription medicine for the flu, but it must be started within 48 hours of showing symptoms. To keep your immune system strong and prevent the flu or common cold, wash your hands frequently, stay well hydrated and take extra Vitamin C and Zinc. "Tamiflu has been shown to reduce the time you have the flu by two days and reduce the risk for an inner ear infection and pneumonia," explains Dr. Duff. "The number one way to prevent the flu is to get your vaccine every year," says Dr. Duff. He recommends everyone get vaccinated, especially those of young or advanced age, as well as people with respiratory illnesses such as asthma and COPD, and diabetes. coxhealth.com 5