It’s that time of year when it just feels like you and everyone around you is sick. Whether it’s a sinus infection or a case of the common cold, there’s no doubt that when the weather outside turns frightful, we all tend to get just a little bit sicker.

Some may say getting some infection is unavoidable this season. We all have an acquaintance that says, “I always get sick at this time of year.” or “Bronchitis gets me every year like clockwork.” However, there are plenty of guaranteed ways to protect you and your loved ones from common infections in the winter of 2022 – if you know what battle you are fighting.

 

Here are a few common winter illnesses to watch out for this season and what you can do to get better fast.

 

Colds

According to the CDC, Carithers Pediatric Group states that adults have an average of 2-3 colds per year, and children are likely to get more! Colds feature symptoms such as a stuffy or runny nose, cough, sore throat, sneezing, and a mild fever, typically lasting for 7 to 10 days. While there isn’t a cure for the common cold, there are treatments for relieving symptoms. After a proper medical evaluation, the National Jewish Health Organization suggests getting plenty of rest, drinking plenty of fluids, nasal washes with a saline solution, antibiotics, and vitamin C. 

Stomach Flu

The stomach flu is a viral infection in the intestines that lasts three days. The unpleasant symptoms include nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, mild fever, fatigue, and watery diarrhea.

Strep Throat

Strep throat is a contagious bacterial infection that lasts anywhere from 1 to 2 days. Fortunately, it can be quickly treated with antibiotics. Symptoms include a sore throat, trouble swallowing, fever, and stomach ache. 

You can do several things to help prevent these and other serious winter infections. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze; washing your hands often with soap and water; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to prevent the spread of germs; and staying home if you are sick. 

Winter can be a challenging time for everyone to stay healthy. But learning how to recognize common winter ailments and what you can do to prevent them will make it easier to care for each other if sickness does come. The majority have a lot in common, so telling the difference is essential. 

When it comes to making sure you are as healthy as possible this winter from the many common infections that are going around, trust your friendly and knowledgeable team at Immediate Care. We understand that being sick is an unexpected inconvenience. That’s why our urgent care centers combine the much-needed convenience of a walk-in medical office with the delivery of compassionate and quality medical care to get you as good as new as soon as possible. 

For more information on how we can take care of you when you are sick and at your most vulnerable, visit our website to explore our services or book ahead to save time today. Like us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for tips on how you can stay healthy this season. 

 

Sources
https://www.cdc.gov/features/rhinoviruses/index.html
https://www.nationaljewish.org/conditions/health-information/health-tips/winter-tips/cold
https://carithersgroup.com/common-winter-illnesses/