Knowing the difference between a bad cold and the flu can be helpful in deciding whether to make an appointment to see the doctor.
Influenza, commonly called "the flu," often begins with the abrupt onset of fever, headache, nausea and/or diarrhea, muscle aches and a general feeling of extreme discomfort and exhaustion. The incubation period is one to two days. These symptoms are accompanied by respiratory tract illness such as cough and sore throat. In some cases, the onset is so abrupt that the precise time at which illness began can be recalled. If you have any of these symptoms, give us a call; there are a number of effective Naturopathic treatments to help alleviate the pain and discomfort as well as shorten the duration of the flu. We are available most evenings for acute visits.
If you've had the flu for a few days and start to get worse, call us immediately. These symptoms may indicate a secondary or bacterial infection with flu. Serious illness is more likely in the very young, the elderly, and people who have certain underlying health conditions such as malnutrition, asthma or other forms of lung disease.
Call us if:
- Your fever returns
- Your fever lasts for longer than three days or is higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit
- You have difficulty breathing
- You cannot stop vomiting and can't keep liquids down
- You wheeze when you breathe
- Your flu symptoms are worsening each day
In contrast to the flu, the common cold seldom has a fever, and symptoms are usually all above the neck: runny nose, post nasal drip and sore throat. Call if you are unsure if you have the flu or a cold, or if any of your symptoms are severe.
Here are some steps you can take to prevent or shorten a cold:
When you first feel yourself becoming sick there are steps you can take to avoid becoming ill or to shorten the duration of illness. These suggestions are especially helpful if you do them early on - as early as possible. They will help you fend off colds or minor infections. I am available most evenings for acute appointments if your symptoms become severe.
Eat very lightly or not at all-With most illnesses the appetite is diminished. This is a natural response of the body. Energy is needed to fight off the "bug" and the body doesn't have the energy to process food. Also, you digestive enzymes are not as effective at the higher body temperature of a fever. Give your digestive system a rest.
Get rest as soon as possible-Many people ignore the early warning signs of illness and keep on working until they "drop". You will take longer to heal if you allow the illness to get a foothold. If you feel a sore throat, headache, congestion, etc. coming on, take it easy. If possible, take a day off from work. This may prevent you from having to take three days later on.
Drink plenty of fluids-This standard advice is good advice. You can help clear the toxins from a bug out of your system with large amounts of filtered water and herbal teas. Avoid dehydrating fluids like caffeine and alcohol.
Don't suppress a mild fever-A fever is your body's natural response to an infection and if at all possible should be allowed to run it's course. Studies have shown that illnesses that are suppressed with cold medication and/or fever suppressants have a slightly longer course. Call the office if you are concerned about your or your child's fever, or if any fever is over 101 degrees Fahrenheit.
Take immune system supportive supplements and homeopathics
- Vitamin C: Take 500mg every 3-4 hours with a small amount of food. Cut back on dosage if you start to have stomach upset.
- Zinc:Take 30-50mg once daily with a small amount of food. This can be continued for 1-2 weeks.
- Osillococcinum: If you think you are getting the flu, or you've been exposed to someone who came down with it, take 6 pellets twice a day for a few days. It doesn't work as well if your flu is already full-blown, but it may prevent it from coming on. Most ealth food stores stock this supplement.
Take immune system supportive herbs--These herbs can be taken as teas (3-5 cups/day), tinctures (1 dropperful 4 times a day), or in freeze-dried capsules (2 capsules 4 times a day).
- Echinacea (Purple cone flower)
- Hydrastis (Goldenseal)
- Astragalus
Dr. Phillips is a board certified Naturopathic Physician in the state of Oregon. The scope of Naturopathic care is that of a primary care physician which includes prescription of pharmaceuticals, minor surgery and most other typical primary care in-office procedures. Dr. Phillips has also been thoroughly trained in nutrition, herbal medicine and homeopathy, and is much more likely to use these modalities before prescribing pharmaceuticals. One of the main differences between a conventional physician and a naturopathic physician is in philosophy: The primary tenant of naturopathic care is to find and treat the cause of a condition instead of focusing on treating its symptoms, which entails treating the whole person, not just the symptomatic areas.
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