Wellness Tips from Josef Schenker, MD | How to Manage Cold and Flu
How to Manage Cold and Flu
Cold and flu affect people all year round and can be triggered by different factors. The common cold, for instance, can be caused by 200 different viruses of which 30-35% are rhinoviruses. The impact of cold and flu on one’s health varies from mild to severe. Latest reports estimate 390,000-830,000 hospitalizations and 25,000-72,000 deaths related to flu in the United States.
Let’s take a closer look at different ways to prevent cold and flu based on the expert advice of Dr. Josef Schenker.
Dr. Josef Schenker Explains the Difference Between Cold and Flu
Cold and flu are both respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. While both illnesses affect the respiratory system, Josef Schenker, MD says they differ significantly in symptom severity and duration. Understanding the differences can help in managing symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment.
Cold
Colds are typically milder than the flu. Colds rarely cause fever or severe exhaustion. More common symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, and mild to moderate chest discomfort.
Flu
Influenza, or the flu, is caused by the influenza virus. Symptoms are usually more severe and come on suddenly. They include high fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, headaches, and a dry cough. The flu can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
Josef Schenker, MD, Explains How to Prevent Cold and Flu
Preventing colds and the flu involves several strategies that focus on boosting the immune system and minimizing exposure to viruses. Dr. Josef Schenker emphasizes that by adopting a holistic approach to health, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of falling ill during cold and flu season.
Try to integrate the following practices into your life and daily routines to enhance well-being and resistance to respiratory illnesses:
1. Get Vaccinated
The flu vaccine is the most effective way to prevent the flu. It is recommended annually for everyone over six months old.
2. Wash Your Hands
Regular handwashing with soap and water can remove viruses from your hands, reducing the likelihood of infection. Scrub for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using the restroom.
3. Avoid Close Contact
Stay away from people who are sick, and if you are ill, keep your distance from others to prevent spreading the virus.
4. Disinfect Surfaces
Viruses can survive on surfaces for several hours. Regularly disinfect frequently touched objects such as doorknobs, light switches, and smartphones.
5. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support your immune system. Foods high in vitamins C and E, as well as zinc, can be particularly beneficial.
6. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of fluids helps maintain your body’s defenses. Water, herbal teas, and broths are good choices.
7. Get Plenty of Sleep
Adequate sleep is essential for a healthy immune system. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night for adults.
8. Exercise Regularly
Moderate exercise can boost your immune system. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.
9. Manage Stress
Chronic stress can weaken your immune system. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
How to Prevent Cold and Flu in Toddlers
Dr. Schenker reminds us that toddlers are particularly susceptible to colds and flu due to their developing immune systems, which are not yet fully equipped to fend off infections. Additionally, their frequent contact with other children in settings like daycare or playgrounds increases their exposure to viruses, making them more vulnerable to illness.
To protect them:
- Ensure they are up-to-date on vaccinations, including the annual flu shot.
- Teach them proper handwashing techniques and encourage regular handwashing.
- Keep their environment clean by disinfecting toys and surfaces regularly.
- Limit their exposure to sick individuals, particularly in group settings like daycare.
How to Avoid Colds and Flu During Pregnancy
Pregnancy can weaken the immune system, making expectant mothers more vulnerable to infections. This natural immune modulation helps prevent the body from rejecting the fetus but also increases susceptibility to illnesses like colds and flu.
Pregnant women must take extra precautions to protect their health during this critical period. To stay healthy:
- Get the flu vaccine, which is safe and recommended during pregnancy.
- Practice good hand hygiene and avoid close contact with sick individuals.
- Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated to support your immune system.
- Consult your healthcare provider about taking prenatal vitamins that can help bolster your immune defenses.
How to Prevent Cold and Flu in the Workplace and Classroom
Workplaces and classrooms can be breeding grounds for viruses due to frequent close contact among individuals. Shared spaces, such as desks, equipment, and communal areas, facilitate the transmission of respiratory infections like colds and flu.
To reduce the spread of illness in these settings:
- Encourage regular handwashing and provide hand sanitizer in common areas.
- Disinfect shared surfaces like desks, keyboards, and phones regularly.
- Promote a culture of staying home when sick to prevent spreading the virus.
- Ensure good ventilation in the workspace or classroom to reduce airborne transmission.
How to Prevent Cold and Flu During Winter
Winter months often see a spike in cold and flu cases due to people spending more time indoors. Proximity increases the likelihood of viral transmission, compounded by dry indoor air that can irritate mucous membranes and compromise immune defenses. These factors highlight the importance of preventive measures during colder seasons.
To stay healthy:
- Get the flu vaccine before the winter season begins.
- Practice good hand hygiene, especially after being in public places.
- Keep your home humidified, as dry air can dry out mucous membranes, making them more susceptible to viruses.
- Dress warmly and avoid prolonged exposure to cold weather, which can stress your immune system.
Supplements to Prevent Colds and Flu
Vitamins and supplements have been known to help promote health and wellness. Understanding what vitamins prevent colds and flu can significantly improve your immune defenses. Certain supplements, according to Dr. Schenker, can bolster your immune system, reducing your susceptibility to infections and aiding quicker recovery if you do fall ill.
1. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is renowned for its immune-boosting properties. It supports the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infections. Regular intake of vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers, or supplements, can help reduce the severity and duration of colds.
2. Vitamin D
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased susceptibility to respiratory infections. Adequate levels of vitamin D support immune function and reduce inflammation. During winter months when sunlight exposure is limited, consider supplements or include vitamin D-rich foods such as fatty fish and fortified dairy products in your diet.
3. Zinc
Zinc is vital for immune cell function and plays a role in reducing the severity of cold symptoms. It helps inhibit the replication of viruses in the respiratory tract. Zinc can be found in lean meats, seafood, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, or taken as a supplement or lozenge.
4. Echinacea
Echinacea is an herbal supplement known for its immune-modulating properties. It may help stimulate the immune system and reduce the duration of colds when taken at the onset of symptoms. Available in various forms such as teas, capsules, and extracts, echinacea can be a valuable addition during cold and flu season.
5. Probiotics
Probiotics promote a healthy gut microbiome, which is crucial for immune function. They help maintain a balance of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract, enhancing overall immune response. Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi into your diet, or opt for probiotic supplements.
Josef Schenker, MD, Answers Frequently Asked Questions:
What causes cold and flu?
Colds are caused by rhinoviruses, leading to mild respiratory symptoms. The flu is caused by influenza viruses, which can cause more severe symptoms like high fever, body aches, and fatigue.
How to prevent the flu after being exposed?
Get vaccinated, wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and stay away from sick individuals. If exposure occurs, consult your healthcare provider. Antiviral medications prescribed by a doctor may help prevent or reduce the severity of the flu.
How long does cold and flu last?
Cold symptoms typically last 7-10 days, while flu symptoms can last up to two weeks. Severe cases of the flu may take longer to recover, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.
How to prevent cold symptoms from getting worse?
Rest, stay hydrated, and use over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms. Avoid strenuous activities, maintain a nutritious diet, and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.
When should I go to the doctor for the flu?
Seek medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent high fever, severe dehydration, or if symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days. High-risk individuals should contact their doctor immediately or go to the nearest urgent care center.
Stay Healthy This Season: Visit Centers Urgent Care Today!
Prevention, from vaccinations and hygiene practices to dietary habits and stress management, fortify the body against illnesses like colds and flu. By prioritizing these measures, you can bolster your immune system and reduce the likelihood of falling ill. However, should symptoms arise despite preventive efforts, visiting a trusted urgent care offers timely and specialized medical attention.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a cold or the flu that are becoming difficult to manage at home, visit a well-equipped facility like Centers Urgent Care. Under the leadership of Josef Schenker, MD, we are renowned for our dedication to delivering outstanding urgent medical care throughout New York.
Visit the nearest Centers Urgent Care facility and get treatment today!
About Josef Schenker, MD:
Dr. Josef Schenker, a board-certified expert in internal medicine and emergency medical services, brings extensive experience and compassion to his role as Medical Director and Partner at Centers Urgent Care. With leadership in SeniorCare Emergency Medical Services and as an Attending Physician at New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, Dr. Schenker oversees critical care and treatment protocols across varied medical needs. His dedication extends to chairing NYC REMAC, ensuring adherence to state standards in emergency medical procedures. At Centers Urgent Care, Dr. Schenker's expertise ensures prompt, high-quality emergency care for patients of all ages, supported by state-of-the-art facilities including a dedicated pediatric suite.
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