Information on Cold and Flu

Colds and flu are caused by viruses that infect the upper respiratory tract (nose, throat, ears and sinuses). The peak season for catching a cold is the winter months. But did you know that colds aren’t directly triggered by the cold weather? They can actually be caused by your central heating which dries out the moist mucosa in your nose. It’s this mucosa that acts as an important defence against invading viruses.

The flu is caused by the influenza virus and thrives during November to February. There are three major types of flu virus: A, B and C.

A cold normally develops gradually and causes a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, mild fever and tiredness. It usually lasts two to four days.

The flu, however, usually affects the whole body. Symptoms include: a high fever (usually 39°C or above), chills, headaches, intense muscle pains, exhaustion, loss of appetite, coughing, and sometimes a blocked nose and sore throat. It can last a week or more.

Most colds don’t last long, so you can treat them at home with painkillers (antibiotics are of no use against a cold). ibuprofen – the active ingredient in Nurofen – has been proven to help lower a temperature. Other ways you can relieve cold and flu symptoms include:

• Using decongestant rubs, vaporisers or inhalers
• Taking zinc and vitamin C supplements
• Drinking hot drinks, like honey and lemon
• Keeping warm
• Resting
  

For more information, contact NHS Direct.

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All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe.  In all health matters please contact your doctor.

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