Since December 2019, every time you feel slightly under the weather, the worry over if you have COVID-19 rises. It can be hard to tell the difference between the symptoms of the coronavirus and flu; however, there are certain key differences between flu and COVID-19. The Facts Both COVID-19 and influenza (flu) are contagious respiratory infections, but they are caused by different viruses. Many symptoms of the two are the same, which can create confusion on which one you may be suffering … [Read more...] about The Difference Between COVID and the Flu
Flu
Respiratory Infections
When is a Respiratory Infection an Emergency? As the world devotes rapt attention with COVID-19, it is important to know what a respiratory infection is and when it is an emergency. The symptoms can be very much like COVID-19 and knowing the differences in symptoms is critical. Risks of Transmission for Respiratory Infections The common cold is the most common cause of doctor visits in the United States. URIs (Upper Respiratory Infections) spread from one person to another through … [Read more...] about Respiratory Infections
Common Springtime Illnesses
Signs, Symptoms and When to Seek Emergency Care Most of us recognize spring as allergy season. There’s more at play than just allergies. Here is a guide to understanding springtime health conditions, how to recognize them, and when to seek the advice of your doctor or emergency medical facility. Spring typically means a return to outdoor activities and the lengthening of days, but it can also be a time for allergy related respiratory illnesses. The reason for the spike in allergy flare-ups … [Read more...] about Common Springtime Illnesses
5 Common Emergencies on Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is a special commemoration of our love for others. We celebrate it in many ways with gifts and date nights. No one is thinking about a visit to the ER on Valentine’s Day, what could possibly happen? Many of us go all out and buy expensive gifts, book exotic holidays or cook a romantic candlelit dinner at home. Our focus is on making the evening memorable, so it can be easy to forget to take basic safety measures. Buying candy, flowers and kissing can come with hidden … [Read more...] about 5 Common Emergencies on Valentine’s Day
Coronavirus Symptoms
What is Coronavirus? Coronaviruses cause diseases in mammals and birds that include diarrhea in cows and pigs, upper respiratory disease in chickens and rare, but potentially lethal, human respiratory infections although these are often mild. There are no vaccines or antiviral drugs that are approved for prevention or treatment. (CDC 2019) There is a new strain of Coronavirus discovered in China recently. This particular strain has been more lethal, meaning that normally healthy humans who … [Read more...] about Coronavirus Symptoms
Flu Prevention Tips
Preventing the flu must be intentional when it’s flu season. Many of us feel vulnerable, even though flu vaccines exist. We’ve heard stories about flu complications and are aware that such complications can worsen symptoms and even result in death. It’s something no one wants to think about. So, we stay vigilant and we are tasked with staying on top of information that can minimize the risk of acquiring the influenza virus. Who Is Keeping Watch on Flu Outbreaks? The Centers for Disease … [Read more...] about Flu Prevention Tips
After The Flu Vaccine: Best Practices
Best Practices After Getting a Flu Vaccine Knowing what to do after getting a flu vaccine can save lives. Should you be confident that you are protected from contracting Influenza? Seasonal Influenza shots protect against the three or four Influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the season. There are several flu prevention options to choose from, but the most important practice is for all people 6 months and older to get an Influenza vaccine every year. If … [Read more...] about After The Flu Vaccine: Best Practices
Do I Have A Cold Or The Flu?
Colds and Flu Types Is it the cold or flu? Sneezing, coughing, fever, body aches, stomach distress are symptoms of a number of illnesses. How do you know the difference between the common cold and the flu? Common Cold Symptoms The common cold is a viral infection of your nose and throat (upper respiratory tract). It's usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. Many types of viruses can cause a common cold. If symptoms exceed comfort levels, it is time to see a doctor. (Mayo … [Read more...] about Do I Have A Cold Or The Flu?
Why Flu Vaccines Fail
Why Flu Vaccines Fail and What to Do When They Do Medical Science is aware that flu vaccines can fail. Why get a flu shot if you can still get the flu? That is a complex question. It’s important to be informed about diseases that can affect our health. We are our own patient advocates when it comes to our health and our family’s health. Our goal is for our local families to be informed, especially when certain illnesses like the flu can result in serious, life-threatening complications. … [Read more...] about Why Flu Vaccines Fail
