Flu or Cold?

11 abril 2019

Flu or cold? A sneeze or discomfort is enough to raise this issue. There are some symptoms that help in distinguishing these diseases. Learn more about them and how to treat and prevent them.
How to tell if it is flu or cold?
There are a few differences you need to know about colds and flu, but the main one without a doubt is the intensity of the symptoms and also the region of the airway affected.

In general, in flu the symptoms are more intense, their duration varies from 7 to 10 days, and in the cold they are milder and have a shorter duration ranging from 2 to 4 days. In addition, in the cold the affected region is more superior to the lung, whereas in influenza the whole lung can be affected.

Another feature that can be highlighted is that the flu occurs mainly in winter and the contagion is very easy, because someone just has the flu in a closed environment so that soon everyone will be infected with the disease.

The influenza viruses are called 'influenza viruses', this is a disease that humanity has lived with for millennia because the virus is constantly mutating or undergoing genetic recombination.

When mutation occurs, a virus cousin of the previous arises and our body has no defense against it. In cases of genetic recombination, a completely new virus appears, and the body has no defense and it can cause a pandemic, that is, a sometimes very serious flu epidemic that can spread all over the globe.

Cold viruses include rhinoviruses (more than 100 different types), coronaviruses, and some of the older ones, but during our lifetime we get immunity, but we can still get the disease if immunity is low and contact with any of them. One of the viruses.

Similar to the flu and cold, there is also the flu syndrome, which can be caused by the flu virus, but also by other viruses or bacteria. Its symptoms are similar to flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches and headache.

Although flu syndrome can be treated at home with rest and fluid intake, there are cases where symptoms may worsen to persistent high fever or difficulty breathing, for example. In such cases, it is recommended to go to the hospital to make a diagnosis with a general practitioner and start treatment with an antibiotic if necessary.
How to prevent and treat colds and flu?
In order to prevent colds and flu it is important to maintain high immunity combined with a balanced diet and drink plenty of water.

Avoid remaining indoors and unventilated, as well as wearing wet clothes or shoes on the body for a long time. When the air is very dry it is recommended to use room humidifiers. It is also valid to use a wet towel on the window or even a bucket of water.

The use of nutritional and multivitamin supplements is very helpful because even if there is proper nutrition, our body lacks some of the vitamins and minerals needed to maintain high immunity.

Although the flu has no cure, you can still get vaccinated against the virus to strengthen the immune system during the flu and cold season. Consult a doctor or health facility to determine if you are eligible for the vaccine.
Other important cautions are:

Wrap up well;
Keep hands warm feet;
Always wash your hands after sneezing or coughing;
Use gel alcohol to maintain hand hygiene;
Place the forearm in front of the mouth whenever coughing or sneezing;
Avoid indoors and crowding;
Avoid the consumption of frozen foods;
Always keep the nose clean and decongested.

How to treat flu
Influenza treatment can be done using medications prescribed by a doctor. It is also recommended to rest and drink liquids: water, juices, teas or soups, among others.

Once the influenza virus reaches the lungs and the person has not had any treatment, there may be complications such as developing pneumonia, for example.
How to treat the cold
To treat colds you may need to take some airway decongestant medicine, such as an antiallergic.

Taking vitamin C helps strengthen the immune system and fight symptoms quickly. Vitamin can be obtained through orange juice, pineapple, acerola and eating strawberries as well as effervescent tablets or tablets.
Propovit a powerful ally
To increase natural defenses and strengthen the immune system. One of the most powerful and most popular allies in the world is propolis, which is used to coat the hives and protect them from harmful external agents. The “protective shield” of the bees was inspired by its name, which derives from the Greek. “Pro” (in favor of) and “polis” (city). Often confused with honey, which is famous for home-made recipes to relieve cold symptoms such as a cough or sore throat, this substance is more complex and consists of a resin that bees get from plants, trees.

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Why is propolis so important in preventing colds and flu?

Studies prove that propolis can have anti-inflammatory, antibiotic and antioxidant actions. In addition, propolis can help alleviate the symptoms of flu, cold and respiratory allergies.

It offers an important immunomodulatory action, ie it increases the development of various types of immune cells such as lymphocytes and antigen presenting cells, as well as the bactericidal, fungicidal and virucidal action of many of them, leading to increased resistance to disease and infection. being a strong ally in the fight against influenza virus having an antiviral action; and an antibacterial action as it works as a natural antibiotic, destroying harmful bacteria.

Propolis is made up of various phytochemicals that plants use to ward off infections and bees use to protect their honey. Some studies even point out that the very composition of propolis - complex, as we have already mentioned - allows it to prevent bacteria from creating resistance.
Various forms of consumption
The benefits of propolis are numerous and available in various forms tailored to different needs and recommended for all ages and practical formats for daily consumption. These solutions are easily found in specialty stores and pharmacies.

Propolis extract is consumed diluted with water and helps to reduce inflammation by acting on the immune system.


Another frequent use is through zinc and vitamin C effervescent tablets, which contributes to the strengthening of the normal functioning of the immune system. A practical and indispensable solution for everyday life, since propolis has the ability to preserve the action of vitamin C.

For sore throats and coughs, the suggestion is an oral propolis spray that soothes and relieves pain. This solution is even more effective if the spray includes in its composition weed (or rinse), a plant known for its high mucilage content, which lubricates and deflates throat irritation and is very useful in case of aphonia, pharyngitis. or cough. The spray may also include eucalyptus extract, with antiseptic properties, and thyme, which facilitates mucus clearance.

Sources:
Drauzio Varella - Colds and Flu
Well being - Propolis may have anti-inflammatory, antibiotic and antioxidant actions