By: Dr. Riffat Sadiq, CEO of WNY Medical PC, Channel Creator

As we evolve into the winter months, we also evolve into cold and flu season. What is the best way to tell the difference, and how can we protect ourselves? It is common to get a cold every year, but not as common to get the flu every year.

The flu, also known as Influenza, typically begins with a 24–48-hour fever. The fever can last up to five days. Other symptoms include body aches, fatigue, chills, nausea, and vomiting. After several days, these symptoms can subside, but they can come with a dry cough and sore throat. For most people, these symptoms will go away in 4-5 days. However, the fever, cough, and feeling of fatigue may return. For those who suffer from asthma or heart disease, the flu can sometimes worsen these conditions.

The common cold consists of a runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, and a cough or sore throat. Headaches may also be present, due to the nasal congestion. The key point to remember is, a cold is not accompanied by a fever. The first signs of a cold are an irritated nose and throat. While it is possible for adults to develop a low-grade fever from a cold, it isn’t common.

What can we do to protect ourselves from these illnesses? Foods high in vitamin D are popular sources, including salmon, mushrooms, and citrus fruits. Berries are also beneficial to your immune system. Other useful products for our immunity are whole grains, yogurt, and green vegetables. In Buffalo, we are prone to poor sunlight, making the need for vitamin D in our diets more important this time of the year. If you feel you aren’t getting the right nutrients, the medical staff at WNY Medical, PC can help recommend dietary supplements, flu vaccines, and other lines of defense to help ward off that common winter cold or flu. Call our office at 716-923-4380 to make an appointment today.