The common viral infection known as the flu affects the respiratory system. This infectious illness is typically caused by the influenza virus. The majority of flu infections have a short duration and are easy to handle at home. Some cases however, may become severe and serious, requiring prompt medical intervention. This can be the case especially amongst babies and young children, elderly individuals, those with underlying medical conditions, and pregnant women. But using at-home remedies is usually the best way to alleviate the symptoms. Continue reading to learn more about winter wellness in the West Midlands and how to treat a cold and the flu with the support of our pharmacy.
Flu symptoms
The following list includes some typical flu symptoms:
- Fever of 38°C or above
- Tiredness and weakness
- A headache
- A dry, chesty cough
- General aches and pains
Symptoms of a common cold
- Sneezing
- Stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Coughing
- Post-nasal drip
- Fever (even though most people with cold do not experience fever)
The flu can also cause cold-like symptoms like a runny or congested nose, a sore throat, and sneezing, though these often disappear more quickly than your other symptoms.
Winter wellness in the West Midlands: How do you stay healthy in winter?
Here are some suggestions to keep you healthy during the winter and the following months:
Update your vaccinations
Take steps to protect your loved ones and yourself during this winter season. If you haven’t already, make sure to get your flu jab, because January is when the flu season is at its worst. Flu vaccines should be administered to everyone over the age of six months.
Maintain good hygiene
This winter, viruses including the common cold, influenza, and COVID-19 are all circulating, so it’s crucial to practice good hygiene. Use proper hygiene to protect yourself and stop the spread of these infections.
Protect your heart for winter wellness
According to the British Heart Foundation, the incidence of heart attacks, strokes, and other heart-related diseases rises when the temperature drops. Your heart has to work harder in cold conditions to keep your body warm.
Stay hydrated for winter wellness in the West Midlands
Summer heat and sweating usually trigger the urge to drink water, but it’s equally crucial to stay hydrated in the winter. You can stay energised, protect your skin from the dry, chilly winter air, and keep your body functioning at its best by being hydrated.
Get vitamin D
A lack of vitamin D may occur if you spend more time indoors, meaning your skin is not getting enough sunlight. Getting enough vitamin D is essential for bone health.
Fortified cereals, low-fat dairy products like yoghurt and cheese, eggs and fish are all excellent sources of vitamin D. Consider taking a vitamin D supplement if diet alone is inadequate.
How can the pharmacy help me treat colds & the flu for winter wellness?
You may lessen your risk of contracting colds and the flu by regularly washing your hands, getting plenty of rest, eating healthily, drinking plenty of fluids, social distancing from sick people, and getting vaccinated. Medications can be used to treat symptoms like fever, pain, and coughing.
Colds and the flu cannot be treated by medication. However, there are numerous over-the-counter (OTC) medications that can reduce the discomfort brought on by cold and flu symptoms. Additionally, there are over-the-counter drugs and a vaccine that can both prevent and treat the flu.
Learn about winter wellness in the West Midlands
Visit your nearest Knights Pharmacy branch today or book your appointment to learn more about winter wellness in the West Midlands. You can also shop online at Chemist.net for cold and flu treatments.
This post was written on behalf of Knights Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor
