Colds and Flu--

It's that time of year again, just when we want to be well to enjoy the festive season/do the Christmas shopping or going on a well deserved holiday many of us are going down with“colds and flu”.

Colds and flu can occur all year round, but seem to be most common in the winter months. No-one is quite sure why, but it may be because many people spend more time indoors, with closer contact between other people and getting less fresh air.

Have I got a cold or the flu?
Although the flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses, they are caused by different viruses. (This explains why that, although you have had your Flu vaccination, you have still developed a cold.) Because they have similar symptoms, it can be difficult to tell them apart. But generally cold symptoms are much milder than flu.
Common cold symptoms:
Sore throat
Stuffy nose
Runny nose
Cough
Mild fever

Flu symptoms
Having the flu is more severe than when you have a cold, and symptoms often develop more quickly.
Symptoms include:
A fever that comes on quickly
Severe aches and pains
Exhaustion
Having difficulty sleeping

Home care
If you are a fit and healthy person, a cold or flu is unlikely to be serious, or cause you any complications. It will disappear without treatment, but there are plenty of “over the counter” medicines you can use to help relieve your symptoms.
If you are considering taking “over the counter” medicines, it is important to check with your pharmacist (chemist) that they will not interact with other medicines you are currently taking.
In particular, always check the packaging and enclosed patient information leaflet to make sure you don't take more that the recommended dose. If you are unsure, always ask your pharmacist or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 for advice.

Self Help
Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids, such as water or fruit juice. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking medicines containing paracetamol.
Take regular paracetamol to relieve any pain or reduce fever. Aspirin and Ibuprofen can also be used but are more likely to cause stomach upset and should be avoided if you have asthma.
Honey and hot lemon can help relieve sore throats.

Usually it's only necessary to see your GP if:
You have a cough that lasts more than 3 weeks
You begin to experience a shortness of breath
You develop chest pains or you already have a chest condition.
If you have a long tern medical condition

How to reduce your risk
Wash your hand regularly – the tiny droplets sneezed or coughed out by someone with a cold or flu can be passed on through hands and other surfaces.
Don't touch your eyes, nose or mouth, as the infection can spread particularly easily through these areas.
Dispose of any used tissues immediately – never leave dirty handkerchiefs lying around.
Cover your moth when you sneeze of cough if you have the virus.
Avoid close contact with anyone who has cold or flu symptoms.

Hope the information has helped.