Cold and Flu - millions of people around the world suffer from one of the two ailments. These are among the most common ailments frequently experienced during winter season. A large number of people infected thus often seek treatment for cold and flu in greater volumes while the winter season lasts. Surprising as it may seem, cold and flu are our body’s reaction to cleanse itself of the invading germs. The mucus production in our nose works as a germ flushing agent. And so does the productive cough which should similarly be expelled. Coughing and sneezing help in getting the mucus out of our body. On the same lines, flu - commonly known as influenza, causes fever whereby we perspire and the body rids itself of toxins. Both these diseases are viral and infectious in nature i.e. they spread through virus and can spread through contact with those suffer from these diseases. But the similarity ends here. The symptoms of cold and flu are totally different in nature. Rhino viruses and Corona viruses are held responsible for causing the common cold whereas flu is caused by the influenza virus. The common cold develops gradually with unpleasant symptoms like a running nose, a sore throat, watery eyes, irritation in the nose and throat, or even a blocked nose. These symptoms cause only minor hindrance to our daily activities but do not necessarily stop us from performing daily tasks. The affects of flu symptoms are sudden and more severe unlike those of the common cold. They can interfere with our daily activities to a greater extent and prove debilitating. We can possibly get bed ridden for a couple of days during a flu attack. Nausea, muscle pain, cold chills, and vomiting are all symptoms of flu. The symptoms of cold and flu gain prominence during the winter season. The exact reason behind why these diseases infect on a greater number of people during winters is still not clear. But researchers point out the close proximity to infected persons while spending more time indoors during winters as possible causes of cold and flu. Staying indoors creates an absence of many physical activities which further weakens our resistance to these viruses. Over the counter medicines and home remedies for cold and flu is often the first line of defense in such cases. While vaccines do exist for flu, there is none available for the common cold. Medications do not cure but only attempt to give relief from the common cold while our body is fighting off the cold virus. As cold and flu are infectious by nature, prevention is of prime importance. Prevention can be attained through habits like washing hands with water and soap often, and avoiding contact of hands with the face whenever possible. As germs can be present in cleaner places we cannot visually detect, we should also work towards strengthening our immune system with nutritional supplement intake and exercise. Natural remedies for cold and flu promote a nutritional diet including vegetables, fresh fruits, honey, salads, honey, fresh juice and whole grain cereals. Taking garlic in appropriate measures is known to help in alleviating the effects of cold and flu. Natural remedies for cold and flu not only help in bolstering the immune system towards tackling cold and flu but are also free of undesirable side effects. One should also get enough sleep and take regular outdoor exercises along with other healthy activities to revitalize the immune system. Maintaining this regime not only acts as a treatment of cold and flu but also helps in gaining overall health.
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