Dr. Joel Biggers and Dr. Elizabeth Biggers provide quality treatment and care at Biggers Family Medicine in Brandon, FL.
Tips for Managing Cold and Flu Symptoms
Colds and the flu can be horrible to deal with, but there are a few ways you can ease the discomfort and help your body heal faster.
Stay Home
Your immune system is compromised during colds and the flu. Getting out of your home will expose you to more viruses and germs, which can make you sicker and keep you sick longer. Additionally, you can spread your sickness to others, so it’s best to stay home as much as possible.
Rest
One of the best treatments for any sickness is rest. Your body is similar to a battery. It needs time to recharge. When it’s empty, it has a harder time healing and fighting off sickness. Take some time to rest and be sure you get plenty of sleep.
Stay Hydrated
When you stay hydrated, your body can more easily thin out the mucus you’re dealing with. This not only helps it drain easier but also keeps it from building up in your lungs. Keep water, broths, fruit juices, and soups on hand to help.
Get Steamy and Salty
A steamy bathroom can help loosen congestion. Just turn your hot water up as high as it can go, fill the bathroom with steam, and hang out for a while. There’s no need to stand in the shower, especially as it can burn your skin. Just sit in a comfortable chair nearby.
Also gargle a cup of warm, salty water. This will help to soothe the throat and fight any inflammation.
Add Moisture
Cold air leads to less moisture, and less moisture in the air leads to drier nostrils and a more sore throat. Use a humidifier if you have one to add moisture to the air.
Consider OTC Medications
OTC cold and flu medications will not cure your sickness. However, they can help alleviate your symptoms and even help you rest better.
Watch for Serious Symptoms
Cold and flu symptoms usually go away within a week, and there’s not much cause for concern. However, if you notice any of the following, it’s important to see Dr. Joel or Dr. Elizabeth for family medicine in Brandon, FL immediately:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fever of over 100 degrees for more than three days
- Earache or ear drainage
- Wheezing
- Vomiting
- Symptoms worsen or do not leave within two weeks
- Seizures
- Fainting
If you need medical care for cold or flu symptoms, call Biggers Family Medicine in Brandon, FL at (813) 655-4646 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Joel or Dr. Elizabeth.