On a cold winter morning, Aunt Zhang, a retired teacher, thought she might have caught a cold because of a cough and runny nose overnight. Her first instinct was to go to her medicine cabinet and find the antibiotics that her doctor had prescribed a few years ago, thinking that it would quickly resolve her discomfort. This behavior reflects a widespread misconception of taking antibiotics as soon as you have cold symptoms. However, this practice may not only be ineffective, but may also bring other health problems. This section will reveal common misconceptions related to colds and antibiotics and provide the right information to help you approach colds more scientifically.
Influenza, commonly known as the "severe cold", is an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. Unlike the common cold, the symptoms of the flu are usually more severe, including a high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, and extreme fatigue. It is important to know that most colds and flu are caused by viruses, while antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections. The use of antibiotic viruses is not only ineffective, but can also lead to increased antibiotic resistance, posing a threat to personal and public health.
Myth 1: Antibiotics can be used for all types of colds and flu. In fact, antibiotics can only be used for infections caused by bacteria. For most colds and flu caused by viruses, rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and using antipyretic analgesics are more suitable.
Myth 2:Antibiotics prevent colds and speed them up**. Many people believe that using antibiotics as soon as the first symptoms of a cold are felt can stop the disease from progressing or shorten the course of the illness. However, this is a misconception. The correct approach should be to give the body enough rest and, if necessary, to use other non-antibiotic drugs as directed by a doctor.
Myth 3:Frequent use of antibiotics is not harmful. Frequent or inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to bacterial resistance, which means that antibiotics may not work in the future when needed. In addition, overuse of antibiotics can also lead to an imbalance in the intestinal flora, causing other health problems.
In the battle against the flu, our first priority is to build a strong defense system. It's not just about vaccination, it's about boosting our personal immunity and correcting lifestyle habits.
Vaccination: a "custom shield" for the flu
Vaccination is the most direct and effective way to prevent influenza. It's like a "wanted warrant" for flu viruses for your immune system, so that if you encounter them, your body can quickly recognize them and respond to them to avoid infection or alleviate the disease. According to health authorities, certain groups of people, especially the elderly, children, pregnant women, and people with chronic medical conditions, need to get a flu vaccine before the flu season each year.
Boosting Immunity: A Miracle of Nature
The strength of immunity directly affects an individual's ability to fight diseases. Ways to boost immunity include, but are not limited to:
Eat a balanced diet:Make sure you get enough vitamins and minerals, especially vitamins C and D, as well as zinc, which are essential for maintaining the immune system.
Moderate exercise: Regular physical activity increases the activity of immune cells, making them more effective against viruses and bacteria.
Get enough sleep:Sleep is essential for restoring and maintaining the normal function of the immune system.
Reduce stress:Long-term stress can weaken the immune system, and learning relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, etc., can help boost immunity.
Correcting Habits: Details Determine Success or Failure
Personal Hygiene:Washing your hands frequently, using soap and running water, is a simple and effective way to prevent the spread of the flu virus.
Eat a healthy diet: Avoid excessive intake of high-sugar, high-fat foods, and eat more vegetables and fruits.
Avoid enclosed, crowded places: During the flu season, try to minimize going to crowded places, and wear a mask if necessary.
Influenza, an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses, affects millions of people each year. Its rapid mutation makes it difficult for the body to be immune to it in the long term. The virus spreads through airborne droplets and direct contact and spreads easily among people.
The main symptoms include:
High fever and chills: a rapid increase in body temperature above 38°C, accompanied by chills.
Respiratory symptoms:Persistent cough, sore throat, may be accompanied by nasal congestion and runny nose.
Systemic symptoms:Extreme fatigue, muscle pain, headache, possible eye pain and light sensitivity.
Seek medical attention promptly:When to seek professional help.
Although most people can recover at home with rest and proper self-care, it is crucial to seek medical help in certain situations:
Symptoms that continue to worsen: such as difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, or symptoms that persist for more than a week.
High-risk populations:Infants, young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic medical conditions (such as heart disease, abnormal glucose metabolism, increased blood pressure in the systemic arteries) are more likely to have serious complications from influenza.
Abnormal symptoms appear: such as persistent chest pain, shortness of breath, purple color, etc.
Precautionary measures:
Get a flu shot: Getting a flu shot every year is one of the most effective ways to prevent the flu.
Enhance personal immunity:Strengthen your body's resistance by eating a balanced diet, exercising moderately, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress.
Improving Lifestyle Habits:Wash your hands frequently, avoid contact with people with the flu, and use tissues to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.