Cold, Fever & Flu
What are the symptoms and treatments?
Tuesday, February 22, 2019 - 08:30am
Overview
A cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory system, primarily affecting the nose and throat. It is one of the most common illnesses, especially during the colder months. The common cold can be caused by several different viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most common.
Symptoms
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Runny or stuffy nose
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Sneezing
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Sore throat
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Cough
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Mild fatigue
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Low-grade fever (rare)
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Watery eyes
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Mild headache
Causes
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Viruses: Rhinoviruses, coronavirus, adenovirus, and others.
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Spread via droplets: when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or talks.
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Direct contact with contaminated surfaces or people.
Risk Factors
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Exposure to cold weather (though cold weather alone does not cause a cold).
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Close contact with infected people.
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Weakened immune system (e.g., stress, lack of sleep, poor nutrition).
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Children have less-developed immunity.
Complications
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Sinus infections.
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Middle ear infections (otitis media).
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Bronchitis.
Prevention
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Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
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Avoid close contact with infected individuals.
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Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.
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Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
Vitamin Deficiencies
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Vitamin C: Low levels can increase susceptibility to respiratory infections.
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Vitamin D: Deficiency may impair the immune system, making one more susceptible to colds.
When to see a Doctor
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If symptoms worsen or last longer than 10 days.
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Severe sore throat or fever.
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Difficulty breathing or chest pain.
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Persistent cough.
Fever
Overview
A fever is an elevated body temperature, often in response to an infection or other medical condition. It is usually a symptom rather than a disease itself and indicates that the body is fighting off an infection. Normal body temperature is around 98.6°F (37°C), but a fever typically starts at 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
Symptoms
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High body temperature
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Sweating
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Chills
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Headache
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Muscle aches
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Weakness
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Dehydration (in severe cases)
Causes
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Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.
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Inflammatory conditions: Autoimmune diseases, inflammatory bowel disease.
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Medications: Some drugs (e.g., antibiotics, vaccines) can cause a fever as a side effect.
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Heat exhaustion: Exposure to high temperatures or overexertion in hot weather.
Risk Factors
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Young children, elderly adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
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Exposure to infectious agents (e.g., bacteria, viruses).
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Underlying chronic medical conditions.
Complications
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Dehydration.
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Febrile seizures (in young children).
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Organ damage (if the fever reaches dangerously high temperatures, e.g., above 104°F or 40°C).
Prevention
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Prevent infections by practicing good hygiene (e.g., washing hands, vaccinations).
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Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support the immune system.
Vitamin Deficiencies
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Vitamin D: A deficiency can reduce the body’s ability to regulate immune responses.
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Vitamin C: Essential for a strong immune system, and its deficiency may cause frequent infections leading to fevers.
When to See a Doctor
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If the fever exceeds 104°F (40°C) or lasts more than 3 days.
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If you have a persistent headache, rash, or difficulty breathing.
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If you're very young, elderly, or have a compromised immune system.
Flu (Influenza)
Overview
The flu is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system. It is caused by influenza viruses, with seasonal outbreaks typically occurring in the fall and winter. Flu symptoms are usually more severe than those of a common cold.
Symptoms
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High fever
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Severe body aches
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Fatigue
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Cough
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Sore throat
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Runny or stuffy nose
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Headache
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Chills
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Weakness
Causes
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Influenza virus: Influenza A, B, and C viruses cause seasonal flu.
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Spread through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
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Contact with contaminated surfaces or objects.
Risk Factors
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Children, elderly adults, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, heart disease).
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Weakened immune systems due to illness or medication.
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Close contact with others during flu season.
Complications
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Pneumonia (bacterial or viral).
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Bronchitis.
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Sinus or ear infections.
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Exacerbation of chronic conditions (e.g., asthma, heart disease).
Prevention
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Annual flu vaccination.
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Practice good hygiene (e.g., wash hands, avoid close contact with infected individuals).
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Stay home when sick to prevent spreading the flu.
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Maintain good nutrition and exercise to strengthen the immune system.
Vitamin Deficiencies
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Vitamin D: Deficiency may lower resistance to infections.
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Vitamin C: Supports immune health and can reduce the duration of flu symptoms.
When to See a Doctor
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If flu symptoms are severe or do not improve after a few days.
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If you have difficulty breathing, chest pain, or a persistent fever.
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If you're in a high-risk group (young children, elderly adults, pregnant women, or individuals with chronic conditions).
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If symptoms worsen quickly or you develop confusion or seizures.
Conclusion
Cold, fever, and flu are common illnesses that often share similar symptoms, such as fatigue and coughing. However, the flu tends to be more severe and can lead to serious complications. Prevention through good hygiene, vaccination, and a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of these illnesses. It's important to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe, last too long, or if you're in a high-risk group.
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