Cold & Flu

Colds and Flu

The Common Cold

Common colds and influenza (flu, for short) share many similarities in terms of symptoms, including sniffling and sneezing. Colds are typically less severe and persist for a shorter duration. A severe cold, however, can turn into something more serious, such as a sinus infection, bronchitis, or pneumonia, without proper care.

Symptoms

Coughing
Sneezing
Headache
Sore Throat
Stuffy Nose
Fever
Fatigue

Causes Of A Cold

Smoking is a major contributor to high blood pressure and a number of other health conditions. Cessation should be an immediate priority when you are being treated for high blood pressure. Reducing or eliminating your alcohol intake can also help you lower blood pressure.

Treatment For A Cold

For patients with high blood pressure, diet adjustments are necessary. One of the best courses of action is to decrease your intake of salty and heavily processed foods. The addition of fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, whole grains, poultry, fish, and nuts, and the elimination of sugary foods and beverages, will make a positive impact on your blood pressure, and your overall health.

Difference Between Cold & Flu

The biggest difference between a common cold and the influenza virus is the severity and duration of symptoms. You may experience coughing, sneezing, and headaches with both, but flu symptoms will usually be more severe. Colds also tend to come on at any time of the year, whereas the flu is mostly seasonal. If your symptoms last longer than a few days, you probably have the flu.