There are a number of ways that you can minimise the risks of catching seasonal illnesses such as colds and flu. Some of them include avoiding close contact with persons with infections, getting the vaccination against flu, getting enough rest, drinking a lot of water and other fluids, and washing your hands with soap and water on a regular basis. Medicines can help reduce symptoms such as aches, coughing and fevers, as well as treat a cold and flu in Bournemouth.

What are flu and colds? (How to treat a cold and flu in Bournemouth)

The flu and colds are infections that mostly attack the upper respiratory system, such as the nose, mouth, throat and lungs. Viruses are known to bring about these infections.

Symptoms of the flu and colds

The flu and colds share similar symptoms. However, the symptoms that come with colds are normally mild and slower to progress than the ones for flu.

Colds

– Fever
– Sore throat
– Headache
– Loss of appetite
– Fatigue
– Watery eyes
– Runny nose
– Stuffy nose
– Body aches
– Sneezing
– Cough
– Chest congestion, discomfort

Flu

– Fever
– Body aches
– Headache
– Exhaustion
– Fatigue
– Runny nose
– Stuffy nose
– Sneezing
– Loss of appetite
– Chest congestion, discomfort
– Cough
– Chills, sweat
– Nausea
– Sore throat
– Watery eyes

Can you treat a cold and flu in Bournemouth with medications?

There is no known cure for flu and colds at the moment. However, there are lots of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that can reduce the discomfort that comes with the symptoms. On the other hand, prescription medicines and flu vaccines are available that can help treat and prevent the flu.

It would be best if you got in touch with us for more details on how to fight minor ailments like colds and flu.

Learn more about the flu vaccination by reading our latest blog post here:

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Other ways to treat a cold and flu in Bournemouth

Yearly flu vaccination and antiviral prescription medicines are available for treatment and prevention of the flu.

Even though medicines don’t cure the flu, they can swiftly reduce the symptoms that come with common colds and the flu. The drugs are most effective if taken within 48 hours after experiencing the first symptoms.

If you are healthy, taking the medicines won’t be necessary in most cases as the flu will most likely go away on its own. The flu medications are usually for cases with severe symptoms, including those people who are hospitalised. They are also kept for persons at higher risk of developing serious conditions resulting from the flu, such as people with chronic medical conditions.

Are there other ways to prevent seasonal illnesses such as colds and the flu?

The other method of keeping colds and the flu away involves getting back to the basics of hygiene. This includes washing your hands with alcohol-based hand wipes, or soap and water, on a regular basis. The common cold and flu are mainly spread by touching the nose or mouth after touching a person who is already infected or touching contaminated surfaces.

Another option to avoid seasonal illnesses is maintaining a balanced diet and practising other healthy habits to boost your immune system.

Check out our latest blog post on the importance of flu vaccinations here:

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Get in touch with us or book an appointment today to receive treatment for minor ailments like cold and flu in Bournemouth.

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This blog post was written on behalf of Holdenhurst Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.