Cold and Flu

Influenza can be more serious than many people realize which is why our practice is dedicated to prevention through vaccination and other preventive measures. Influenza can be extremely serious, and sometimes is deadly. Influenza is a respiratory infection that is caused by a number of air borne viruses which enter the body through the nose or mouth. The elderly, newborn infants and people with chronic illnesses are at the greatest risk.

You may have heard people you know who have intestinal distress and upset stomachs say that they think they have the flu, but this is incorrect. Remember that Influenza is a serious respiratory illness. Symptoms of the flu can often come on suddenly, and while at first they may be similar to symptoms of a cold, they are oftentimes much worse.

Common symptoms of influenza include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Sweating
• Sore Throat
• Nasal Congestion
• Cough
• Body and Muscle Aches
• Headaches

If you are unsure about your symptoms, remember that the flu almost never causes an upset stomach, and a cold rarely causes a fever. Whether you have a cold or “the flu” it is important that you drink plenty of fluids to stay well-hydrated. Dehydration makes it more difficult for the body to recover from any illnesses, especially the common cold and the Flu. If you are unable to hold down fluids, you may need IV fluids to assist your body with re-hydration. Our private infusion suite makes it possible to deliver such this type of care rapidly as part of your visit.

Our practice provides annual flu vaccine to our patients before and during the flu season. The flu vaccine does not prevent you from contracting the flu entirely; however, if you do contract the flu, your symptoms will be drastically milder and much shorter in duration. Additionally, the influenza vaccine is not a live vaccine and you cannot contract the flu through the immunization.

Getting a yearly flu vaccine is the best way to keep from contracting the illness, so be sure to call and schedule a time that is convenient for you before flu season begins! Most people are excellent candidates to receive this Influenza vaccine, and if you have questions or concerns regarding your options, we welcome you to talk freely with our providers.