Battling cold and flu: what works and what doesn't

Battling cold and flu: what works and what doesn't

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SALT LAKE CITY — Get your tissues out; It’s cold and flu season.

In the course of one year, an estimated one billion colds are suffered through in the United States, according to The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Anywhere from 5 to 20 percent of the U.S. population will get the flu.

Although there are no cures for the common cold or flu, there are some tips and tricks that can make the process a little more bearable. Dr. Keri Peterson, board-certified in Internal Medicine and a member of the American College of Physicians and the American Medical Association, gave multiple pieces of advice for navigating flu season unscathed.

What works in treating the cold or flu:

Rest

According to Peterson, nothing beats good old-fashioned staying in bed all day. Peterson said rest is important because it helps boost your immune system. Giving your body time to heal is necessary, especially if you have a fever. Running errands, going to work and going out on the town while you’re sick won’t help you feel better.

Stay hydrated

Peterson said that consuming lots of clear fluids such as water and clear soups can help prevent dehydration which will fight a flu virus. Warm liquids such as chicken soup or warm lemon water with honey are best for loosening congestion and increasing mucus flow. Make sure to avoid alcohol, caffeinated sodas and coffee, which can cause dehydration.

If you have a sore throat, gargling warm salt water a few times a day can help alleviate pain and itchiness.

Breathe

For those who have trouble breathing through their nose, Peterson said a humidifier can loosen up congestion. Peterson said that since the flu virus thrives in dry environments, a humidifier can help reduce the survival of a flu virus in a home. Although it’s a popular method, don’t use steam. This technique hasn’t been proven to cure colds and may cause burns, according to Mayo Clinic.

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What doesn’t work:

Peterson said that antibiotics and many homeopathic medications do not work as a way to treat a cold or flu. She said to stick with solid medications like acetaminophen for treatment. She also said that echinacea has not been proven to be helpful.

What can’t hurt:

Peterson said vitamin C can help prevent the flu and can help build up an immune system. Other treatments that have been found to be helpful in treating and preventing the flu include Echinacea and zinc lozenges.

Tips for preventing the flu:

Peterson said that to prevent catching a cold or the flu, washing your hands is critical. She said to wash your hands regularly with soap and water for 20 seconds at a time. She said to also avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, which are direct entry points for germs, and finally, to get a flu shot.

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Lindsey Johnson

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