Cold & Flu Season
We said hello to the dreaded cold & flu season in October, and now we’re at the peak of it. At this point, you may have become well acquainted with your fair share of homeopathic remedies, over-the-counter therapies or even antibiotic prescriptions.
Are you questioning your life’s choices as you brace yourself for a Neti-pot rinse? Or suffering tummy troubles after taking that antibiotic on an empty stomach? The cold & flu symptoms can be overwhelming when you don’t feel good. Let’s break down the specifics of the season to offer some relief once and for all.
Cold vs. Flu, What’s the Difference?
The common cold and the flu (influenza) often share many of the same symptoms so it can be difficult to tell them apart. The flu is generally worse than the common cold, and those suffering from the flu will typically have symptoms such as fever, body aches, fatigue, and dry cough.
Symptoms for the common cold are usually runny nose, congestion, and sneezing. Both conditions are common, contagious, short-term and normally self-treatable.
High-Risk Flu Patients
Young children, elderly, pregnant women and those with a weakened immune system are considered high-risk for influenza and complications, and they should consult their doctor if they are experiencing flu-like symptoms.
Is the Cold/Flu Viral or Bacterial Infections?
Bacteria are typically harmless and -at times- even helpful, while most viruses cause disease. Viruses take over your normal cells and use them to multiply. Common viruses are cold and flu—these types of infections cannot be treated through the use of antibiotics.
Bacterial infections (ex. Strep throat) can be treated with antibiotics, but as antibiotic usage has become widespread, some strains of bacteria are becoming antibiotic-resistant. This poses certain risks and indicates that use should be limited.
Treating Cold and Flu Symptoms
Many people turn to over-the-counter medications to mask the symptoms of the cold and flu, but often these medications come with other side effects and may or may not relieve the symptoms. Antibiotic use for the common cold and flu is often not effective since it’s a virus and not bacterial.
How Chiropractic Can Help Your Immune System
One of the critical systems of the body is the lymphatic system. This system is an important part of the immune system; the lymph nodes of the body (people have between 501 and 700 lymph nodes) make immune cells to help fight infection. Lymph is transported through the motions and contractions of the muscles (musculoskeletal system).
The connection between the musculoskeletal system, central nervous system (the brain and the spinal cord) and the lymphatic system is why a chiropractic adjustment can improve the function of the immune system. Chiropractic adjustment removes subluxations in the spine, which occur when vertebrae or vertebras move out of position and can prevent proper communication within the
central nervous system.
If symptoms of cold and flu season are wreaking havoc on your New Year wellness goals, talk to a chiropractic doctor about relief. Brielle Integrated Healthcare is a brand-new, full-service, one-on-one rehabilitation and wellness center that offers services to help you get healthy and stay healthy. Visit us today!