A lot of concerns have arisen in my practice lately regarding the increase in patients in Palm Beach County being diagnosed with the Swine Flu, H1N1 virus. With winter and flu season upon us, I feel this weeks story should address some serious concerns that we are all facing. There are more than 200 different viruses that cause the "common cold." It takes the human body many years to develop antibodies to so many viruses, which is why small children are the most susceptible to colds and viruses. The common cold gets less common as we grow older and by the time we are 60, we are likely to get less "colds" but the effects of Influenza become more dangerous as we age.
When you have a cold, you expel millions of viruses upon coughing or sneezing. Then, others become infected by inhaling the viruses or transmitting them to their mouth or nose by the hands. The best defense is to wash your hands regularly to get rid of the viruses picked up when you touch a doorknob or other object touched by someone with a cold. When you have a cold, wash your hands frequently and use disposable tissues instead of a handkerchief. Also, I recommend to not touch your eyes and nose, which are the viruses main entry point into your body.
Although the seasonal flu, like a cold can clear up by itself, it can lead to serious complications for vulnerable people. I recommend annual flu shots for everyone over 65 and for anyone who has a medical condition that may decrease their immune system including children over 6 months of age. The flu viruses are also spread through the air or by touching contaminated surfaces and people. So it is important to wash your hands often. Unfortunately, antibiotics can't fight a cold or the flu, it must run it's course. Obtaining a seasonal flu vaccine is important, but contraindicated if you are allergic to eggs (the medium in which the vaccine is grown). Also medications such as Tamiflu or Amantadine can help decrease the duration of the illness if caught early enough in its course.
The common cold can cause a variety of symptoms and last for a week or two; flu symptoms, including the H1N1 virus come on fast and hit you hard. Getting adequate rest, using a steam vaporizer to help breathing, and drinking plenty of fluids to help loosen the mucous in your throat and counter dehydration is imperative. The common cold and the flu can leave your body susceptible to bacterial infections or other complications. So, as I always say... Contact your physician and ask questions. Don't wait on your symptoms because with the flu, time is critical.
Dr. Lorne Stitsky is the founder and owner of Personal Choice Family Practice of Jupiter. An "old-fashioned" family practice in the heart of Abacoa. For more information or for a free consultation on this membership practice; please call 561-779-1520 or visit www.drstitsky.com.