How to Stay Healthy During This Holiday Season
With every holiday season, comes the threat of coughs, colds and more serious illnesses, like influenza. We want the members of our community to enjoy the holidays, not be stuck in bed with a fever or the sniffles.
Hear from one of our board certified emergency physicians, Dr. Crossley, on some common flu myths, treatments and how to determine if you’ve got the flu, or just a cold.
Q: Does getting the flu vaccine mean I can’t get flu?
A: A common misconception is that you can’t get the flu if you’ve had a flu shot. The flu shot protects you from some, but not all strains of the flu.
This is why it’s important to get your flu vaccine every year. Even if you’ve been immunized, it’s possible you can get the flu, although unlikely. You can ask your physician about how the vaccines have been altered to protect against the newest strains of influenza or visit the CDC’s page on the 2016-2017 flu season.
Q: How do I know if I have the flu or just a common cold?
A: It’s hard to know if you have just a cold or the flu. With the flu, more serious symptoms will be present, like a fever and body aches. If you’re unsure, get yourself checked out by a physician.
You may also experience the following symptoms with influenza.
- Headaches
- Fatigue and drowsiness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dehydration
Your body is working overtime while you’re sick to fight off the illness. Don’t push yourself to do anything strenuous, like exercise or you may worsen your condition.
Q: How do I protect myself from flu?
A: The best prevention against the flu is to wash your hands and get the flu shot.
If you’re not sure about where to wash your hands, check out our infographic!
Q: What should I be doing at home while I’m resting with the flu?
A: Some at home remedies that can speed up your recovery are rest, lots of clear fluids, and chicken noodle soup.
While chicken noodle soup has no proven medicinal properties, you can’t underestimate the power of a warming, homemade meal. Just avoid the canned version as it contains lots of sodium. Plus, it’s easy on your stomach, which means you won’t worsen any nausea and you’ll be replacing vital nutrients.
What’s your favorite show to watch while you’re sick? Do you catch up on any holiday movies? Let us know in the comments!
Nutex Health, Inc. supports you and your family’s health. Come visit Golden Triangle Emergency Center or any one of our concierge-level freestanding facilities for the emergency care you deserve, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.