Do you Have Spring Fever?

As the weather changes from the dreaded cold of a history-breaking winter to the warm signs of spring, many complain of spring fever: wanting to be outside and not being able to concentrate on daily tasks. But there is another type of spring fever. Allergies return and the spring cold virus takes precedence. Some complain that it is every fall and spring they are attacked by a cold. Some ask the never-ending question of whether it is an allergy or cold.

Both a cold and allergy have exactly the same symptoms with the exception of a cold usually accompanying a fever and only lasting for a few days. Allergies can last for several weeks and generally begin in April. Antiobiotics will not help a common cold or affect any kind of virus. But they will help if a bacterial infection is diagnosed. However, if your temperature is high and your symptoms become worse, you should contact your doctor.

According to the CDC, viruses that cause colds can be caught from touching a doorknob that has the virus and even through the air.

How can you protect yourself from the common cold this spring?

  • Wash your hands for 20 seconds or sing happy birthday to yourself while cleansing with soap and water. It is the amount of time you spend rather than the disinfectant.
  • Move away from coughing and sneezing. Researchers have found that sneezes produces gas clouds of infection.  Sneezing or coughing into your sleeve is recommended rather than into your hand. Even little sneezes can be potent.
  • Disinfect areas that are commonly used.
  • Use wipes to disinfect the parts of a computer with which people come in contact.

How to treat a cold

  • Steam treatments in a hot shower or bath can help relieve congestion.
  • Use a neti pot for nasal irrigation. This will also help allergies.
  • Chicken soup helps with hydrations. Research has shown that chicken soup, even canned, may help white blood cells migrate less often according to Dr. Stephen Rennard at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.
  • Hot peppermint tea offers vitamin A and calcium.
  • Bed rest will not necessarily get rid of a cold but staying at home to relax will help to improve your immune system and relieve tiredness.

Making sure that you have adequate health and life insurance is also necessary anytime you are not feeling up to snuff. Check with your health provider or life insurance agent for more information.

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